Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/564866
STARRINKS.COM SEPTEMBER.OCTOBER.2015 / 39 ride before or after practice, let's get our bags — and bodies — to the edges. We are trying to make our arenas inviting for future users. The first thing a new user does not want to see, or jump over, is a stack of bags. Not only does it make the arena look better, it is looking out for the safety of other users of the facility. 4. Warmup, but Be Considerate Running the bleachers, mezzanine or lobby area is a great way to get loose for the game, don't get me wrong, but we have to be considerate to everyone else at the arena, too. Players should be aware of who is in an arena crowd. Most likely it's parents and grandparents, and the last thing they want is a team of 15-20 players running in front, back and to the side of them. Use common courtesy. Jumping rope, running in place or jumping jacks in the locker room can pro- vide the same warm-up as running through the arena. If it's not winter there's really no excuse, warm-ups should be done outside. 5. Public Skating Protocol This is where etiquette is really important. We want to make public skating a great experience for everyone. We have skaters of all different ages and experience levels out on the ice at once — make sure your skaters know that. Many are out on the ice for the first time or are afraid of falling and getting hurt. Those who are comfortable on the ice may be tempted to test the limits, but there are a few things that they should avoid doing, especially on a crowded sheet: • Weaving through the crowd. • Going too fast. • Skating against the crowd. By doing these things it can increase the chance of falling for new skaters. If a fall does occur — and it will — staff should instruct the fallen skater to move to their hands and knees and then step back on their blades from that position. Most will try to get help from someone nearby — do not encourage this. It can create a dangerous situation for all skaters. We as daily users can help our industry. We will only get more skaters for this lifelong sport if we create an enjoyable and organized atmosphere. Use good judgment as a player, guest and users of the arenas. J Mark Vaughan manages the Eagan Civic Arena and Waterpark for the City of Eagan. He is also the owner of Arena Concepts, , Remind coaches to be aware of ice resurfacer drivers if they're moving nets on the ice.