Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/1029542
T here's no greater delight than offering programs that help introduce new youth and families to on-ice sports. U.S. Figure Skating strives every year to give families new ways to not only get involved in figure skating, but stay involved, especially at the higher levels. This year U.S. Figure Skating is unveiling Excel, a program that provides a new, competitive opportunity for skaters who do not qualify out of regionals in a given season. The Excel program includes: • The Excel Chart – A leveled elements chart of events that can be offered at any non-qualifying competition. • The Excel Series – A series of competitive events nationwide through which skaters can compete to earn a spot at the series final. • Excel Performance Camp – Series finalists will participate in a fun, team- building performance and components camp as part of National Festival weekend. • National Festival – A new U.S. Figure Skating umbrella event that will include the Excel Performance Camp, Excel Series Final competition and an Open National Compete USA event. Levels in the Excel program start at Beginner, with half jumps and basic spins and run through Excel Senior, with jump requirements that permit up to double axel. Thus, Excel provides a competitive place for most of the skaters and club members at your rink! This program is vital to retaining membership in figure skating as the gulf expands between minimum passing requirements of U.S. Figure Skating test levels versus the significantly higher technical aptitude required of skaters who hope to earn a spot on the podium. The popularity of competitive opportunities like the Solo Dance Series and Synchro Sectionals, indicate that many 38 / SEPTEMBER.OCTOBER.2018 USICERINKS.COM PHOTOS: U.S. FIGURE SKATING U.S. Figure Skating introduces a new program to boost enrollment and retention Contact your local U.S. Figure Skating club today to expand programming.