Skater EXPECTATIONS & Code of conduct

 Support & Respect

• Skaters should strive for personal growth and excellence in figure skating.
• Show kindness and respect to fellow skaters, parents, and coaches.
• Remember that being a part of the Southwest Figure Skating Club means representing the club in the community. This includes treating all skaters in the Community Service Learn to Skate program with the same positive and supportive attitude.
• Appreciate and respect each skater’s unique abilities and personalities.
• Help create a strong and welcoming club atmosphere by working together toward shared goals.
• Always show good sportsmanship and respectful behavior at club ice sessions, ice shows, lessons, open skates, and competitions.

Follow Ice Rules & Safety Guidelines

• Skaters must read, understand, and follow all club ice rules and safety recommendations to ensure a fun and safe environment for everyone.

Respectful Behavior & Discipline

• Coaches will watch for inappropriate skating behavior and address any issues.
• If a skater does not follow proper etiquette, their coach (along with another coach if necessary) will discuss the issue with them off the ice.
• If needed, further action may be taken, such as limiting participation in club events, competitions, or membership.
• If the skater’s coach is not present, the issue will still be discussed with the skater, and their coach will be informed as soon as possible.
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Disagreements & Concerns

• If a skater feels they have been treated unfairly, they have the right to bring their concerns to the Southwest Figure Skating Club Board of Directors.
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Substance-Free Commitment

• Skaters must stay free of alcohol and illegal drugs when participating in any club event, practice, or competition.
• The club follows the Minnesota State High School League’s rules on substance use and penalties, which can be found here.

By following these guidelines, we can all contribute to a positive and supportive environment for every skater.

To make sure everyone has a great time on the ice, we ask all skaters and parents to follow these simple rules. Parents, please take a moment to review them with your child. At SWFSC, we believe that showing kindness and respect is just as important as learning new skating skills!

Respect & Kindness

• Always be kind and respectful to coaches, parents, rink staff, and fellow skaters—both on and off the ice.
• Coaches are in charge on the ice and may remind skaters of the rules at any time.
• Parents (or an ice monitor) help keep things running smoothly off the ice and may also remind skaters of the rules when needed.

Staying Safe on the Ice

• Once a session starts, try to stay on the ice unless there’s an important reason to leave. Coming on and off too much can be distracting.
• When the Zamboni is ready, leave the ice right away—it’s not safe to try and squeeze in “one last jump.”
• No food, gum, or drinks (other than water bottles) are allowed on the ice.
• Keep your phone off the ice! If you need to look up something or record a move, do it from the side boards.
• Avoid unnecessary talking during practice—stay focused and make the most of your ice time!
• If you're standing still, move to the boards so others can skate freely.
• If you fall, get up quickly to avoid accidents. If you bump into someone, check that they’re okay, apologize, and keep going.

Locker Room & Changing Room Rules

• No cell phones are allowed in the locker rooms to protect everyone’s privacy and ensure a respectful environment.
• Changing should only happen in the restrooms—please do not change in the locker rooms to maintain comfort and privacy for everyone. 
• Parents are not allowed in the locker room - In accordance with SafeSport guidelines, parents of skaters 11 years old and younger are are permitted in the locker rooms. Parents of younger skaters may briefly enter to assist with tasks such as tying skates but must exit once assistance is provided.

SafeSport & Club Guidelines

• The Southwest Figure Skating Club follows SafeSport guidelines to ensure that all skaters, parents, and coaches are participating in a safe, respectful, and supportive environment. These rules protect everyone and promote positive relationships on and off the ice.
• SafeSport rules prohibit any inappropriate behavior, including misconduct, bullying, or harassment, and we expect everyone at SWFSC to uphold these standards.

Being a Good Skating Citizen

• No kicking the ice, using bad language, or throwing temper tantrums.
• No games of tag or chasing—everyone should be working on their own skills.
• If a skater is practicing their routine to music, they have the right of way.
• Spins should be practiced in the center of the rink, between the blue lines.
• When skating backwards, always check behind you to avoid collisions.
• During warm-ups or full-rink moves, skate counter-clockwise whenever possible.

What Happens if Rules Aren’t Followed?

1. First Reminder – A coach or ice monitor will kindly remind the skater of the rules.
2. Second Reminder – The skater will take a 15-minute break on the bench while reviewing the rules again.
3. Third Reminder – The skater will need to leave the ice for the rest of the session. Parents will be contacted to discuss concerns.

Following these guidelines helps create a safe, respectful, and fun environment for everyone. Let’s work together to make the rink a great place to skate and grow!