Synchronized Skating Developmental Program ~ Little Blades
What Is Synchronized Skating?
Synchronized skating is a fun and rewarding experience for skaters of all ages. It is the newest and fastest growing discipline in the sport of figure skating. Team skating first appeared in the late 1950s at the University
of Michigan, and synchronized skating has now become an international sport. U.S. teams now compete with teams from around the world. Synchronized skating is slated to be an Olympic sport in the 2014 Winter Games. Synchronized skating is all about teamwork. A synchronized skating team consists of 8 to 20 members, skating various formations and steps in unison to a choreographed program set to music. The objective is for the team to skate as one unit rather than as individuals. Programs are performed in front of judges during competitions and in ice show exhibitions. Synchronized skating also benefits figure skaters in the development of their singles skating by enhancing on-ice performance and overall skating development. Synchronized skating offers you the opportunity to participate in a group activity and make new friends, while sharing in the experience, energy and camaraderie of a team sport.
The Synchronized Skating Developmental Program: Little Blades
The Robert Morris University Island Sports Center currently has two competitive U.S. Figure Skating synchronized skating teams: the Steel City Blades Junior Competitive and Competitive Teams.
The purpose of the Synchronized Skating Developmental Program is to introduce skaters ages 6–13 to synchronized skating and to familiarize them with elementary holds, formations and transitions. Emphasis is on the development of basic synchronized skating skills that are necessary to prepare for synchronized team tryouts. However, there is no obligation to try out or join the Steel City Blades synchronized skating teams.
The Synchronized Skating Developmental Program teaches a variety of hand, elbow and shoulder holds in addition to footwork, unison, straight lines and formations. You’ll improve your basic skating skills while having lots of fun!
There is a place for everyone in our synchronized skating program!
Prerequisites
In order to participate in the Synchronized Skating Developmental Program, skaters must be between the ages of 6 and 13, possess strong backward skating skills and be at the ISI Gamma level or higher. Skaters must be enrolled in the Learn to Skate Level 2 program and/or be receiving weekly private lessons while participating in the Synchronized Skating Developmental Program.
Instructors
The Synchronized Skating Developmental Program is under the direction of the synchronized skating staff at RMU Island Sports Center.
Dress Code
• All skaters must have their own skates.
• Tennis shoes must be worn during the off-ice portion of class.
• Proper skating attire is required – skating dress and tights or sweat suit; no jeans.
• Team practice outfit will be discussed at first practice.
• Hair must be pulled back in a ponytail or bun.
• Jewelry is not permitted (necklaces, rings or bracelets).
• Gloves are not permitted.
2011-12 Little Blades Brochure