A few words.....

Maryland has a large adult skating community, but like most adults who love this sport, ice skating is a passion and not a livelihood. We skate out of desire. Our jobs and families can sometimes pull at us in different directions, but if we are wise we will learn to balance our desires with the needs of those we love and care for.

There are many resources and events out there vying for adults' attention and participation. Both USFSA and ISI have national competitions just for adults. The Washington Figure Skating Club hosts its annual adult only competition. Any company with 2 brain cells left to rub together also knows the adult skating segment is a growing and viable market. So as an adult, take you time, get involved with events that suit your interests and time restraints.

There is also an organization known as PSA. I do not know much about this group, but I do know that whenever my coach comes back from one of their workshops, I get tortured with "new and better ways" to do things. Mentioning the letters PSA to your coach will make their eyes glass over and have them turn into a coaching nazi, so be careful. :-)

At the same time, take advantage of ice time provided by your rink and your local club. Usually the caliber of skater is high during USFSA Club ice sessions. This will help challenge you as an adult to grow in your skating ability. A poor but accurate comparison is "running with the big dogs." If you only skate with people who do not challenge you (i.e., public sessions), your improvement will be limited. But do not be intimidated by younger skater who are working on their double axel, while you are trying to perfect your waltz jump. Every skater is an individual.

Above all....have fun!

Competitions for Adults

USFSA Adult Nationals 2008
Date: April 1- April 12 2008
Sponsor: Skating Club of Lake Placid
Location: Lake Placid NY

 

ISI Adult Nationals 2008
Date: TBD,2008
Location: TBD
Application Due: TBD, 2008

Training Camps for Adults

USFSA Adult Training Camp
Date: TBD
Sponsor: TBD
Location: TBD
Application: TBD

Here are some links to adult web sites or site that have adult focus portions to them.

Don Korte's Figure Skating Web Site - This is a great all around resource, but has an adult focus section that is up to date and informative.

USFSA Adult Section - This is the horses mouth in terms of events and other info regarding the adult athlete.

Geriatric Figure Skaters - This is a fun site with some good info in it. Check it out.

If we have missed a good adult site, please send us an e-mail note at mdskating@gmail.com and let us know. We will be glad to include it .

This page is maintained by Greg and Greg for the love of the sport.
Last date modified is 01/21/2008