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USICERINKS.COM MAY.JUNE.2020 / 27 incentive and encouragement to keep skaters motivated. Members also have access to the Learn to Skate USA App, a brand-new member benefit that features a practice tracker, digital trophy case and on-and-off-ice challenges. Lessons on the ice become lessons in life, and the curriculum offers something for everyone, from first steps on the ice to mastering advanced skills, allowing skat- ers to confidently move to more special- ized areas of skating. Endorsed by U.S. Figure Skating, USA Hockey and US Speedskating, Learn to Skate USA is the starting point on a journey that keeps pro- grams full and customers coming back. Programming plays an important role in a facility's revenue and retention strategies. As the grassroots program that pipelines skaters into the three ice skating sports, Learn to Skate USA acts as the foundation program for increased revenue throughout the entire rink. Skaters start here, generating interest in adults looking to reignite a childhood passion to younger generations dreaming of Olympic glory. These customers grow into lifelong rink patrons. They are the future birthday party and public session skaters, adult hockey league players, fig- ure skaters and volunteers. Learn to Skate USA is a customizable program that allows facilities to meet consumer demand, maximize profits, and increase foot traffic. Instructors and directors receive marketing and support materials, a comprehensive management system and an instructor certification platform, all of which helps programs and rinks enhance the customer experience, in turn generating profit. More than 1,000 programs across the country have chosen Learn to Skate USA for their grassroots program, investing not only in a world-class system but in their facility's future. Keys to Customer Service and Retention with Learn to Skate USA • Offer easy access to program informa- tion: emails, texts, handouts, etc. • Keep the program straightforward and understood by participants. • Make it easy for skaters to check in, grab skates and know where to go. • Be open to evaluations and customer input. • Communicate! Send regular emails and newsletters, update your website regu- larly, etc. • Camaraderie goes a long way toward skaters' enjoyment. • Ensure your program focuses on fun at every level. • Always be aware of all of your custom- ers' needs. Tips for a Successful Learn to Skate USA Program • Understand your customer base, demo- graphics, desired wants and needs. • Keep registration records, participant attendance and retention rate. Track every session. • Create a budget and stick to it. • Avoid overspending by closely moni- toring budgets. • Keep consistent class dates and times so families can plan. LESSONS ON THE ICE BECOME LESSONS IN LIFE, AND THE CURRICULUM OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE, FROM FIRST STEPS ON THE ICE TO MASTERING ADVANCED SKILLS, ALLOWING SKATERS TO CONFIDENTLY MOVE TO MORE SPECIALIZED AREAS OF SKATING. , Skaters gain a confidence on the ice with every stride of Learn to Skate USA.