Competitive Programs
(Competitive and Star Skate)
Vancouver Skating Club (VSC) offers a range of competitive programs tailored to skaters' age and figure skating abilities.
Pre-Competitive
Ages 5-9
The Pre-Competitive program is the VSC’s next step after JumpStart. Skaters may join by recommendation from the CanSkate program, JumpStart or by audition. This program is an introduction to early competitive figure skating focused on teaching strong skating basics, jumping, spinning, ice dancing and performance skills. An introduction to competition is included with the VSC hosting an in house event. Skaters are provided with appropriate supplementary off ice. Skaters in this program may test and begin competing. Skaters are designated to contact coaches during this time.
Competitive B
Ages 9-14
The Comp B program is designed to fit the needs of skaters who are in the Learn to Train segment of the LTAD. Skaters in this program are competing and developing skills in freeskate, dance and skills. Focus is on strong skating basics and performance. Strategically planned off ice is provided to meet with the needs of these developing skaters. Comp B skaters may be competing at a Provincial level.
Competitive A
Ages 10-21
This program is designed for provincial level athletes and skaters who have passed the Junior Silver Freeskate test. On ice sessions include freeskate, spins, STEPS and COP. This program offers an opportunity for full time students to skate and compete. The off ice classes, STEPS and COP are based on a year plan with periodization for Provincial to National and International level athletes.
High Performance
Ages 10-21
This program provides daytime training to athletes who attend Sport Schools and other specified programs allowing serious competitors an opportunity to train during the day to supplement after school training times. All Comp A programming is supplemental to the High Performance program.
High Performance Registration Form
Off Ice Program
Off ice conditioning is an essential part of any skater's development which helps produce a well rounded athlete that is able to meet the demands of the sport from both a physical and artistic perspective. Essentially off ice training is cross training in grace and presence (dance of all genres), core strength (pilates and yoga) strength and agility (speed, aerobic and anaerobic capacity), theatre and interpretation (drama) and flexibility. It is important that skaters participate in this VSC program, which is included in all packages.
S.T.E.P.S. - Part of all competitive programs
Designed for skaters from StarSkate to International level, the program includes our S.T.E.P.S. development, as well as comprehensive off ice program training (stretch, dance, strength, agility, aerobic components), pre-season camps, a sport-school program, day ice as well as after-school ice.
S - Skating, stroking, skills, speed
T - Technique, turns, toe runs, timing
E - Edges, expression, elegance, explosion
P - Posture, power, performance
S - Style, stretching
Simulations
A simulation is an event or experience that creates the appearance and feel of being real. In skating it is important for athletes to be exposed to and experience the sensations of competition without risks. This allows skaters to perform their programs in front of evaluators and get feedback on what was good and what needs work. In this way, athletes have an opportunity to fine tune their skating in preparation for competitive events as well as figure out the kinds of things that help them deal with nervousness and the pressure of performance. Simulations are a very important part of developing skaters and will be held regularly throughout the year.
