Ice Force One - Adult Synchronized Skating

Ice Force One's organization is growing, and we welcome you!  Please e-mail to be placed on our interest list.  We will keep you informed as plans develop for the 2006-2007 season.  If you are 21 or over, there is a place for you in our organization.  For the upcoming season we plan to field our Master's Team and possibly an Adult Open team.  In future years we hope to field an Adult team (see the team definitions page for information on the USFSA levels).

Pre-Season Sessions and Team Selections

What to expect during the Pre-Season Sessions:

• Information about Ice Force One and Team Opportunities.
• Organized drills skating opposite another skater down the length of the ice executing footwork.  Specifically, we will utilize the 5-step mohawk sequence, power three-turns, perimeter stroking, and spirals.
• Skating connected with fellow skaters (forwards and backwards).  Do not worry if this is new to you.  We will review the proper arm holds, hand holds, and help you feel comfortable.
• Skating to a specific beat around a large circle (forwards and backwards).
• Personalized feedback after the sessions.
• An opportunity to meet the team and get your questions answered.
• Fun!

Team Selection Process

Team Selections will be made through observations during the Open Houses or individual sessions.  Our coaches work together to determine the line for our next season.  Please do not let this discourage you from attending.  The atmosphere will be fun and inclusive.

Each year we will analyze our current group of skaters to determine how many skaters we can add to the line at different ability levels.   We recognize that everyone's joy and safety is dependent on our achieving a healthy balance between experienced synchronized skaters, strong freestyle skaters, skaters with team experience, and those who skate at a more modest level.  We are normally able to expand the team at the higher ability levels, but may not have as many spaces for other levels.  Our philosophy is to skate the strongest possible team (minimum 12) as opposed to skating our maximum number allowed (20).  Our goal is to field a full team of 20 strong skatrs.   We will not know until we receive Preliminary Intentions from current team members how many spots at different levels we will be able to offer.

Based on interest, we may field an Adult Open team this coming year and will make that decision after the Open Houses.

Recommended Skills and Qualities

The following is provided in response to interested skaters questions, "What are the requirements for Ice Force One?"  "What test levels do you need?"  "What other factors do you consider when making a decision?"  We encourage you to read this, but the best way to find out about Ice Force One is to speak personally to one of us and to come to a practice!

Skating

• Proficiency through the Adult Bronze Moves-in-the-Field.  It is not a requirement that a skater pass that test level; however, we rely on all of the elements of these tests and offer them to skaters as a guideline for our minimum requirements.  A description of the maneuvers and the focus elements is offered below for reference.
• Ability to execute mohawks and three-turns at speed.
• Forwards and Backwards crossovers showing strong use of both pushes (especially on the under push)
• MUST be able to skate to and maintain the beat of any music played.  Timing is essential when skating with a group..
• Strong form - ability to link with others and hold your form while skating (not folding inward).  This requires strong upper body strength, strong core muscles (abdomen and back), and ability to allow speed to move "through you" (we'll explain this in person).  We encourage all skaters to pursue strength training and some form of aerobic exercise for their own well-being and for an easier transition to synchronized skating.
• Additional Footwork and Elements from past seasons (likely to be choreographed again for this year):  Choctaws, back lunges (connected), hydroblades (selected skaters).
• Freestyle elements executed by some skaters from previous seasons (likely to be choreographed again):  spins, split jumps, waltz jumps.  Note:  We have had skaters learn how to jump for the first time on the team, don't let the freestyle movements inhibit your trying!

Attitude

• A positive attitude.
• A willingness to learn.
• Openness to different types of people and learning styles.
• Flexibility.
• Sense of humor a big plus.
• Willingness to be a part of a Team (be on one or more Committees)

Previous Experience

• We have had beginner skaters do very well on Ice Force One.  Skaters excel at very different rates.  We consider many factors when putting the team together.
• No previous synchronized skating is required, though past team members are considered important for the team continuity and culture.  Past synchronized experience is, of course, most welcome and helpful.
• Positive contributions in past seasons are considered when making up the team.
• A background in Ice Dancing and Freestyle is helpful.
• We encourage all skaters to continue with their current coaches for private lessons, and/or seek additional coaching when needed.