Skater's Code of Conduct

Skating is a competitive and individualized sport that requires safe and courteous behaviour from all
participants, on and off the ice. Skaters need to be aware of one another and react predictably to
ensure their own and others’ safety. Each skater is responsible for being aware of and practicing the
rules of etiquette and safety noted below.

• Due to insurance requirements, only registered Skate Canada members are permitted on the ice, except in a medical emergency.
• Skaters are expected to be on time and to skate the duration of their session.
• Food, drink, and gum are not permitted on the ice; plastic water bottles are acceptable but must be left at the boards. Glass bottles are prohibited.
• Spectators, including parents of skaters, may watch quietly from the stands or seating area — not by the boards. (If a skater needs more direction, the coach should be consulted after the session, and a plan developed to help the skater become more independent.)
• Skaters and parents should be respectful of all coaches.
• Parents and/or skaters must notify the skating director if they will be absent on any team or open session they are registered.
• Parents and/or skaters must notify the skating director when purchasing a buy-on session.
• For safety, if you must leave a session before its completion, please tell a coach.
• Skaters should be dressed neatly and in the proper skating attire. (No hoodies or bulky winter jackets). Long hair should be tied back and off the face.
• The gates in the rink boards must be kept closed while a session is in progress, to ensure the safety of skaters on the ice. Sitting on the boards is not permitted.

• Skaters must always look both ways when leaving the boards.
• Skaters are expected to be skating at all times while on the ice, and to get up promptly after a fall in order to keep pathways clear for other skaters.
• The ice surface should be used for practice, not for conversation. (Working in small groups with coach’s approval is acceptable.)
• When practicing routines, skaters must learn to maneuver around other skaters and still do jumps, spins, and footwork successfully.
• The skater who is in a lesson and the skater whose music is playing has the right of way.
• Calling out “Excuse me!” or “Heads up!” will alert other skaters to get out of the way.
• Skaters should use the centre of the ice, between the blue lines and away from the boards, for practicing spins. This allows room at the ends of the rink for preparations for jumps, and for other skaters to maneuver around the spinning skater.
• Bathroom breaks should be taken during floods or at the start or end of the session, unless absolutely necessary. Kleenex, mitts, gloves and non-glass water bottles must be brought with you at the beginning of the session.
• Foul language, yelling, and abusive or aggressive behaviour, including kicking holes in the ice, are prohibited and will result in loss of privileges.
• Skaters must clear the ice promptly at the end of each session.