The Bismarck Figure Skating Club (BFSC) is a member of the United Skates Figure Skating Association (USFSA). The BFSC follows the USFSA Basics Skills Program for group lessons. The purpose of this program is to take a skater from the beginning stages of skating to the point where they are capable of participating in the official higher level USFSA test and competition program recognized nationwide.
The BFSC also supports the instruction of the higher level USFSA test and competitive program by offering ice time for practice and private instruction in Moves in the Field, Freestyle, Dance and Synchronized skating. Because the club is non-profit, it depends heavily on volunteers to make it work and keep the costs affordable.
The BFSC is governed by a Board of Directors in accordance with the USFSA rules and regulations. Board meetings are on the second Tuesday of each month at 6:15 p.m. and are located in the VFW All Seasons Arena in the Curling Room and are open to all members.
PROGRAMS OFFERED
The USFSA Basics Skills program used by the BFSC for group instruction has been designed to create the highest degree of interest and enthusiasm possible in all disciplines of skating for all ages. Basic skills through advanced are offered in the following disciplines:
Freestyle
This is the practice of moves such as jumps, spins, footwork and spirals. Freestyle is a showcase for a skater's artistry as well as their athletic and technical ability. Skaters will often practice moves to music in the form of a program.
Moves in the Field
These elements teach balance and control as well as edges and form while using power and speed.
Dance
Dance music is provided on dance sessions for the practice of compulsory dances. There are over 3 USFSA recognized set pattern dances organized into levels of difficulty. Skaters practice these solo and eventually skate them with a partner.
Synchronized Team skating
This team event has the objective for the team to skate as a unit, not bringing attention to any one skater, demonstrating unison and artistry while performing complex moves to music.
LESSON OBJECTIVES
1. Provide an enjoyable and safe skating experience
2. Develop enjoyable social relationships through group instruction
3. Teach correct technique of basic elements
4. Develop a finer degree of coordination and balance
5. Provide incentive rewards
6. Promote physical fitness
OTHER SPECIAL EVENTS OFFERED
Annual Ice Show
Each year BFSC hosts an ice show (usually late March). The show gives our skaters an opportunity to show off their progress and possibly meet some high level guest skaters. In addition, the show is a fundraising event and promotes figure skating, in general, to the public. All club members are invited to participate in the show.
USFSA Test Session
BFSC offers USFSA sanctioned test sessions throughout the year where higher level skaters are invited to present their skills in front of a panel of USFSA judges for evaluation and movement to higher competitive classifications.
Competitions
BFSC will host a competition in February 2009 for Basics-Preliminary level skaters and Synchronized skating teams. More information regarding this competition will be available soon on our website.