Rising Stars
What is Rising Stars?
Rising Stars is your child's first step into figure skating.
Rising Stars is a transition program between CanSkate and Junior StarSkate (figure skating). It gives skaters an opportunity to begin learning the foundations of figure skating while continuing to develop their skating skills.
Skaters will continue working toward their CanSkate badges while being introduced to basic figure skating skills in a group setting.
Who is Rising Stars for?
Rising Stars is for CanSkate skaters who are showing the skills, confidence, and independence needed to begin exploring figure skating.
Coaches will identify skaters who are ready for the program based on their skating development in CanSkate and their readiness to participate in a more focused figure skating environment.
Entrance into this program is by invitation only. If you have questions about Rising Stars or believe your skater may be a good fit for this program, please email Jessica at directorofskating@cranbrookskating.com.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Rising Stars is a group-based program where skaters learn alongside others who are beginning their transition into figure skating.
What Helps Our Skaters Succeed
Skaters will be encouraged to become increasingly independent on the ice, listen to their coaches, practice the skills they are learning, and develop good skating habits.
Skaters are expected to:
→ Come prepared to skate in appropriate skating attire.
→ Keep hair tied back neatly and away from the face.
→ Wear gloves while on the ice.
→ Get up promptly after a fall, unless injured.
→ Avoid standing in the middle of the ice.
→ Look in the direction of travel, particularly when skating backwards.
→ Listen to coaches and participate actively in the session.
→ Encourage fellow skaters and respect their work time on the ice.
→ Treat coaches, volunteers, and fellow skaters with respect.
These expectations help create a safe, positive environment where everyone has the opportunity to learn.
What Will My Skater Learn?
Rising Stars introduces skaters to the foundations of figure skating while continuing to build strong skating fundamentals.
Skaters will begin developing skills such as:
→ Edges and turns
→ Basic jumps and spins
→ Stroking and skating skills
→ Footwork and body control
→ Balance and coordination
→ Figure skating terminology
→ Skating etiquette and rink awareness
The focus at this stage is on building a strong foundation to allow skaters to become comfortable with the skills and expectations of figure skating.
Equipment
Properly fitted and maintained skates are an important part of learning to skate.
Rising Stars skaters should have:
→ Properly fitted figure skates
→ Gloves or mittens
→ Appropriate skating attire
→ Hair tied back and away from the face
If you are unsure whether your skater's skates are appropriate or need to be sharpened, please speak with Either Daniela or Jessica before purchasing new equipment.
Learn more about skating equipment →
What's Next?
Rising Stars is designed to help prepare skaters for the next stage of their figure skating journey: Junior StarSkate.
As skaters develop their skills and demonstrate readiness for the next stage, coaches will help families understand when it is appropriate to make the transition.
Rising Stars → Junior STARSkate
Every skater progresses at their own pace. Moving forward is about being ready for the next challenge, rather than reaching a particular age or timeline.
If you believe your skater is ready for Junior StarSkate, please reach out to Jessica directorofskating@gmail.com
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I register my child for Rising Stars?
Rising Stars is an invitation-based program. Skaters are invited to participate when their coach feels they have demonstrated the skills and readiness needed for the program. If you believe your skater may be a good fit for this program, please email Jessica at directorofskating@cranbrookskating.com.
Does my skater need to finish CanSkate before moving into Rising Stars?
No! Rising Stars is designed as a transition between CanSkate and StarSkate (figure skating). Skaters can continue working toward their CanSkate badges while participating in Rising Stars.
Does my child need figure skates?
Yes. Rising Stars skaters should have properly fitted figure skates that are appropriate for their current level of skating. If you are unsure what type of skates your child needs, please speak with a coach before purchasing.
How does my skater move into Junior StarSkate?
As your skater develops and demonstrates readiness for the next stage, a coach will discuss the transition with you. Rising Stars is intended to prepare skaters for Junior StarSkate.
Does my skater need to wear a helmet in Rising Stars?
Yes! Skaters are required to wear a helmet until they have passed their stage 5 CanSkate badge.
Is Rising Stars a competitive program?
No. Rising Stars is an introductory to figure skating program. It is designed to introduce skaters to figure skating and prepare them for the StarSkate pathway.
If your skater is in Rising Stars and is interested in competing, please contact Jessica, our Director of Figure Skating at directorofskating@cranbrookskating.com