You must be INVITED to join STAR Academy
or already be skating at this level in order to register on a STAR Academy session
STAR Academy
STAR Academy is an invitation only program for skaters who have participated in the CanSkate program, and who show interest and ability beyond the recreational level. STAR Academy Skaters are typically under 10 years of age.
STAR Academy is a twice a week skating program that includes on ice as well as off-ice training. NEW Fall-Winter 2024-25 - Opportunity to skate a 3rd session each week on Fridays 7:15-8:15am session. STAR Academy is a hybrid of our CanSkate [Stage 5 & 6] and STARSkate programs. It is for those skaters who show an interest and ability in pursuing figure skating.
Through a combination of coached lessons and individual practice time, the STAR Academy program teaches skaters to train effectively while beginning their transition from CanSkate to figure skating tests and competitions. Skaters must be assessed and approved prior to their participation in the program.
Skaters must wear a CSA-approved hockey helmet until they have passed CanSkate Stage 5. Running shoes must be worn for the off-ice class.
All lesson costs are included in the price of the program.
Equipment for STAR Academy
Skaters joining our Star Academy program should have the following equipment:
1. IF not yet passed Stage 5 of the CanSkate Program you MUST have a CSA Approved Helmet (see guidelines below)
2. Proper fitting Figure Skates. NO Plastic or Adjustable Skates (see guidelines below)
3. Proper clothing - see dress code below.
4. Gloves or Mittens
Dress code for STAR Academy:
Proper Athletic clothing - layers are best. Yoga pants and top are perfect, layered with tights, shirts, sweaters. Skating dresses. Long hair must be tied back. Must have running shoes for off ice.
What kind of skates do I need?
Fitted figure skates are required for STAR Academy. Leather, lace up skates are preferable to vinyl. Hockey Skates are NOT suitable for STAR Academy. Molded plastic skates with velcro closures are not recommended. BobSkates with the double blade are not suitable for our programs.
Appropriate Figure Skates
Appropriate Boys Figure Skates
NO Hockey Skates
How to Purchase Skates
Wearing the proper skates is very important for your child's success in skating. Skaters in STAR Academy should wear fitted figure skates. We recommend that you purchase skates that have laces and not clips or dials to tighten. Skates with laces allow for the skate to be better adjusted to fit the child's growing foot. We also DO NOT recommend that you purchase adjustable skates. While this may seem like a cost saving option with a young child that is growing rapidly it is really detrimental to their progress. As you enlarge these type of skates the blade becomes too short for the boot and it causes difficulty for the skater to maintain proper balance and technique.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
A CSA approved hockey helmet is required for all skaters who have not yet completed Stage 5 of our CanSkate Program.
Helmet Guidelines
CSA approved hockey helmets are mandatory for ALL skaters who have not yet completed Stage 5 of CanSkate.
The helmet fit should be snug
Hair should not be in a ponytail under the helmet...this interferes with the proper fit
Face Masks/Cages are optional but recommended for 1st time skaters. They can be removed as the skater becomes more comfortable on the ice and able to control their fall.
Both the strap and the helmet should be adjustable
Stickers should not be put on the helmet
Bike, Ski and other types of helmet are NOT acceptable. Skaters will be prohibited from joining classes until proper protective gear is worn. This symbol is mandatory on the back of the helmets.
Hockey helmets are designed to help protect against head injuries occurring on ice, whether from a fall or collision. A bicycle helmet, for example, is designed to protect against head injuries should a fall occur while riding a bicycle. It is important to ensure that when a skater is on the ice, they are protected with equipment designed for their sport or activity.
At WRSSSC, we support and conform with Skate Canada's policies. Click here to read the official Skate Canada guidelines related to safe sport and helmets.
