Print this page

Planning a Figure Skating Training & Competition Season As with any sport, the Special Olympics Figure Skating coach must have a coaching philosophy. The coach's philosophy should be consistent with the Special Olympics philosophy, which is that quality training and opportunities for fair and equitable competition are guaranteed for the athlete. However, successful coaches include fun in the overall plan, along with development of the athlete and the athlete's acquisition of skills and knowledge of a particular sport, as objectives of their programs. In the long run, organization and planning are the keys to a successful season. The following list may assist the figure skating coach in planning a season.   Preseason Planning Ensure that all prospective skaters have thorough physical examinations before the first practice. Also, be sure to obtain parental and medical releases. Improve your knowledge of figure skating and your sport skills by attending training schools. Locate a local rink for practice sessions. Recruit volunteer assistant coaches from home-schooled skaters, adult skaters, local schools or university athletic programs. Schedule at least one practice a week for at least eight weeks prior to the scheduled competition. Schedule exhibitions or competitions against other skaters prior to Regional or Multi-Program Games. Establish goals and write an instruction outline for the season.   Season Planning Continue to use skill assessments to keep track of athletes' progress. Plan each practice according to what needs to be accomplished. Draw up and manage an eight-week training program, such as the one suggested.   Postseason Planning Review preseason goals and determine how many of them were achieved. Ask for comments from athletes, parents and volunteers.

Prev Page Next Page