Practices begin in mid-August/early September of each year.

 

Arctic Edge Unity beginner teams range in age from 4-12 years old and aim to introduce skaters to the fundamentals of competitive synchronized skating. Beginner skaters will compete locally and regionally in a non-qualifying environment. Per US Figure Skating rules, there are three distinct beginner divisions:

 

Beginner 1: 8-16 skaters, majority under 9 years old and must be actively enrolled in Basic Skills/Learn-to-Skate.

 

Beginner 2: 2: 8-16 skaters, majority under 12 years old and must be actively enrolled in Basic Skills/Learn-to-Skate or be taking private lessons.

 

Beginner 3: 8-16 skaters, majority at least 12 years old and must be actively enrolled in Basic Skills/Learn-to-Skate or be taking private lessons.

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Skills recommended for a Beginner Team Skater: 

• Forward/backward skating with speed

• Forward/backward pumps on a circle

• Forward crossovers and working on/mastering backward crossovers

• Two-foot turns/working on or mastering three-turns and mohawks

• One-foot glides (forward and backward)

• Working on spirals, lunges, bunny hops and two-foot spins