So you would like to be a Figure Skater
Where to Begin?
​Learn to Skate
  • Most ice rinks run 'Aussie Skate' classes which is a 'learn to skate program', designed for beginners of all ages.
  • Aussie Skate is the feeder program for anyone wishing to progress into Figure Skating or Ice Hockey.
  • Classes are arranged by skating ability and coaches follow the Aussie Skate curriculum making classes lively using a wide variety of activities creating a fun environment and promoting learning.
  • Aussie Skate coaches are required to be Fully Accredited and registered with the Australian Professional Skaters’ Association (APSA), have a current Working with Children Check (WWCC) and first aid certificate. ​
  • Skaters progress individually, moving through the levels at their own pace. Skaters are tested at regular intervals moving onto the next level class once all skills are passed.
  • For more information regarding Aussie skate classes, please contact the rink directly. 
​Private Lessons
  • You may prefer Private Lessons which are one-on-one lessons with a fully accredited Figure Skating Coach.
  • If you want to take it to the next level and start entering Figure Skating Competitions you will need private lessons.
  • You can start private lessons regardless of your skating ability or level.
  • Private lesson coaches are fully accredited and registered with the Australian Professional Skaters’ Association (APSA), have a current Working with Children Check (WWCC) and first aid certificate.
  • To arrange private lessons, please contact your preferred rink to make contact with available coaches. 
What you need to start Competitions?
Skates
  • For competitions you will need your own Figure Skates.
  • All Figure Skate brands have different levels of boots from beginner to advanced and it can seem very confusing. The difference in the levels is generally a variation in the stiffness of the ankle support and the type of blade. Choosing the correct Figure Skates is very important. Your coach will be able to suggest the appropriate level of skate to suit your age and ability. 
  • Skate sizes also vary from one brand to another and can be different to your normal shoe sizing. It is extremely important not to oversize your boots. Too much growing room will affect your progress on the ice, cause sore feet and blisters and risk breaking the skates down prematurely. Your coach will also be able to help you size your skates.​
Competition Outfit
  • In order to Compete you will need a competition outfit.
  • Competition dresses are generally made up of a leotard with built in skirt and are the most common choice. These dresses are usually made of lycra allowing the skater to move freely. The colour and style is completely up to you. 
  • You will also need Figure Skating Tights. These can be footed or over-the-boot style. Over-the-boot style is the most popular as they hide any scuff marks or scratches on your skates.
    • Please note:- It's always good to have a spare pair of skate tights as there is nothing worse than getting a rip or ladder on the day of your competition. ​
Memberships
  • In order to compete in a Figure Skating Competition you must be a current member of an affiliated club as well as a current member of NSW Ice Skating Association (NSWISA). 
  • For beginner levels (Aussie Skate), you will also need to join the ISA Aussie Skate program.
  • Click here to go to our PVSFC Membership information page.
  • Click here for NSWISA website for their Membership information.
  • Click here for NSWISA website for their Aussie Skate information page.
How good do I need to be to Compete?
​Aussie Skate
  • Competitions start from an Introduction to Skating and even have a designated section for children aged 5 and under so its never too early to start. General Guidelines are that competitions in these levels are to be skated on half ice. This means the ice is split by cones into two equal halves. The skater performs a 1 minute or less routine with background music supplied by the competition organisers. Skaters are judged on technical elements and presentation. 
  • You can then progress through the levels and into the Bridging Program. General Guidelines are that competitions in these levels are skated on full ice. The skater performs a 1:30 minute program with their own background music. Skaters are judged on technical elements and presentation.
  • The above divisions are for Single Skating however, Aussie Skate also has divisions for Ice Dance, Synchronised Skating, Pairs Skating, Artistic Skating and Adults. The beginner levels start with the most basic skills taught in Aussie Skate School and progressively lead to more difficult elements as you advance through the levels. Your coach will decide which division is best suited to you.
  • Once you have progressed through the Aussie Skate levels you can test and progress into the IJS system which covers the more advanced levels.
I'm nervous about competing alone
The first several levels of Aussie Skate are performed on half ice, (meaning the ice is split in half with cones). Remember you are never alone. You will always have a coach present as well as family and other club members to cheer you on. 
How about Skating in a team
Maybe you would like to consider Theatre-on-ice which is artistic programs skated in a team event similar to musical theatre. Stage Left is a Theatre-on-ice team for children aged 15 years and under. 
​For more information contact Stage Left via this email link. 
Or
Maybe you would like to consider Synchronised Skating which is also a team event with artistic program incorporating step sequences and field moves. For more information visit Southern Sky Synchronized