Ice Etiquette and Skater Code of Conduct

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

1. Due to insurance requirements, only REGISTERED SKATE CANADA MEMBERS are permitted on the ice except in a medical emergency.

2. FOOD, DRINK AND GUM is not permitted on the ice. Water only is acceptable and must be in a non-breakable container.

3. Spectators, including parent, may watch from the stands or seating areas - not the boards or boxes - and must refrain from conversing with or offering direction to skaters on the ice. If a skater needs direction, the coach should be consulted after the session and a plan developed to help the skater become more independent.

4. The gates to the ice surface must be kept closed while the session is in progress to ensure the safety of the skaters on the ice. All skaters must receive permission from a coach to leave a session once it has begun. Skaters must clear the ice promptly once the session has ended taking all belongings including any garbage.

5. Dressing rooms are to be kept clean at all times. Garbage is to be placed in the garbage container provided and not left on the bench or floor.

ON THE ICE SKATERS ARE EXPECTED TO:

1. Be on time for all sessions. Any skater arriving late should approach a coach with an explanation of the tardiness. Please notify the coach if you are going to be late arriving or have to leave early for any reason.

2. Look both ways when leaving the boards.

3. To be skating at all times while on the ice, and to get up promptly after a fall to keep pathways clear for other skaters.

4. Refrain from using their practice time to have conversations with other skaters. Working in groups is acceptable with a coach's approval.

5. Give the right of way to those skaters whose music is playing and to those who are in lessons.

6. Use " EXCUSE ME" or " HEADS UP" to alert other skaters that they are in your way.

7. Practice spins in the center of the ice between the blue lines and away from the boards and jumps in either of the ends. Continuous movement will avoid collisions.

8. Please refrain from interrupting a coach during another skater's private lesson, unless absolutely necessary.

9. Refrain from using foul language, yelling and abusive or aggressive behaviour. Any witness of any disrespectful behaviours should be reported to a coach immediately and could result in removal from the session of the offending party. Bullying in any form will not be tolerated. Show respect to your coach and fellow skaters.

10. Skaters should avoid any conduct which brings their club, Section or Skate Canada into disrepute, including but not limited to use of alcohol and non-medicinal use of drugs. Any skater who is suspected of being under the influence of either non-medicinal drugs or alcohol, will be removed from the session immediately and parents contacted.