Chief Referee: Patricia Wilkins

Chief Accountant: Judy Civiello

Competition Chair:

Renee Grauberger

Competition Registrar: Maureen Moloney

ICompetition overview

The 2026 AZ State Championships will be conducted in accordance with the rules and regulations of U.S. Figure Skating, as set forth in the current rulebook, as well as any pertinent updates that have been posted on the U.S. Figure Skating website.

This competition is open to all eligible, restricted, reinstated or readmitted persons as defined by the Eligibility Rules.

Skaters must be a currently registered member of a U.S. Figure Skating member club in the state of Arizona or a resident of the state of Arizona currently registered member of a U.S. Figure Skating member club, or an Arizona collegiate club in accordance with the current rulebook.

IIEligibility

Singles Excel and well-balanced events

• Skaters must meet at least the minimum singles test requirements for the event's level. A skater's singles test level may be higher than the minimum requirement.
  • Skate Up: skaters may skate up one level higher than their highest singles test level allows.
• Skaters may not register for an event level lower than allowed by their competitive floor. An athlete's competitive floor is set by one of the following scenarios:
  • If an athlete has a paid EMS series application for the NQS series, the event level registered for in the most recent NQS series will become the lowest level they may compete at in any U.S. Figure Skating sanctioned event.
  • If an athlete has a paid EMS series application for the Excel Series, the event level registered for in the most recent Excel series will become the lowest level they may compete in in any Excel event. For Well-Balanced and Specialty events the skater will be permitted to register at one level lower than the 'floor' set by their excel series entry.
  • If an athlete has never had a paid EMS series application in the NQS or Excel series, the athlete may select their level based on their goals and technical skills as long as the minimum test requirements are met.
• Skaters are not permitted to enter an Excel free skate and a Well-Balanced free skate event at the same competition (example: Juvenile Girls Free Skate and Juvenile Girls Excel Free Skate). However, they are permitted to enter an Excel and a Championship Track event of different types such as a short program (if stand-alone event option), specialty or showcase events (example: Intermediate Women Short Program and Intermediate Women Excel Free Skate).

All other singles events (such as adults)

• Skaters must meet the minimum test requirements for the events level but not exceed the maximum permissible test requirement.

Events offered

• U.S. Figure Skating Program Requirements: https://www.usfigureskating.org/competition-programrequirements
• Compete USA Program Requirements: learntoskateusa.com/competeusa
• Skate United: For any Skate United (S.U.) Athlete, please have them register for their appropriate level under the 'standard' option. Once the registration is complete, the following form must be submitted to the competition chair via email at competitions@skatingclubofphoenix.com.
  • Click here for the Skate United Athlete Form.
  • If you have questions about how to support Skate United Athletes at your competition, email events@usfigureskating.org.

• Skating Accommodation Memorandum (S.A.M.): Skaters using a S.A.M. must submit their S.A.M. to the competition chair via email at skatingclubofphoenix.com.
  • Click here for more information about S.A.Ms.
  • If you have questions about on how to support skaters using S.A.Ms, email events@usfigureskating.org.

On the program requirements page linked above, competitions that fall within the date range beside the program requirements must use those requirements.

Our community

U.S. Figure Skating is dedicated to fostering a culture of belonging and community that is welcoming for all individuals. We are committed to championing diversity, equity and inclusion and understand its value in combating discrimination and challenging inequalities necessary to develop champions both on and off the ice. We are actively working toward developing equitable practices and policies that foster safety and empower all individuals to authentically pursue their unique path in all areas of our sport. We stand firmly on the belief that our members are the most important asset to our organization and that our differences are meaningful and strengthen our sport. We believe that skating is for everyone.

Non-discrimination

U.S. Figure Skating commits in policy, principle and practice to sustain a non-discriminatory approach on and off the ice for all members. We strive to provide equal opportunity for all despite their varied backgrounds, experiences and identities, and want all members to feel valued and respected at every level of organization. U.S. Figure Skating's SkateSafe® Program receives, investigates and addresses allegations of discrimination or harassment throughout its membership and the organization. Please refer to the SkateSafe® Program Handbook for further definition of harassment, discrimination and abuse.

By attending this event, all participants are willingly committing to upholding U.S. Figure Skating's Code of Ethics ( GR 2.00 ) and Code of Conduct ( GR 3.00 ), as detailed within the U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook.

To report a concern of discrimination or harassment to U.S. Figure Skating, please visit www.USFigureSkating.org/SkateSafe or email SkateSafe@USFigureSkating.org.

Athlete assistance/accommodations

Should a skater with disabilities require any specific accommodations or assistance for their competitive event, please submit your approved S.A.M to the Competition Chair by the registration deadline at competitions@skatingclubofphoenix.com.

Skatesafe compliance

For full details about participant compliance requirements, refer to the U.S. Figure Skating SkateSafe® webpage: https://www.usfigureskating.org/skatesafe#compliance .

Coaches

To be an eligible coach at a nonqualifying competition, coaches must meet the applicable compliance requirements and verified by U.S. Figure Skating. Coach compliance falls into two categories, Coach Compliance (including choreographers) and Learn to Skate USA® Instructor Compliance. Details regarding compliance requirements can be found in Members Only, click the blue 'COACH' button . All compliance requirements must be met at the time of check-in to access the competition, no exceptions.

Mandatory athletes

Athletes age 18+ as of the competition start date who will be competing on a team (i.e., synchro, ice dance, pairs, shadow dance, theatre, etc.) with at least one Minor Athlete must complete SafeSport ™ Training.

Minor athletes who turn 18 mid-season are encouraged to seek parental consent to take the online SafeSport ™ Training early to avoid any disruptions in their ability to participate as the training is required upon turning 18. The athlete will not be SkateSafe compliant until they have completed the training and their Members Only portal reflects completion. Please email skatesafe@usfigureskating.org for instructions or questions regarding parental consent.

IIIRegistration information

• All skaters must register through www.entryeeze.com and all entries must be complete by midnight MST on Sunday September 20th , 2026. Skaters will not be permitted to compete until all fees have been paid.
• Skating Club of Phoenix reserves the right to close registration at any time if event capacity is met.
• Late entries may be accepted at the sole discretion of the Referee and competition committee and will be subject to a $50 fee.
• Any level changes due to skater/parent/coach error made after the close of entries will incur a $50 change fee.
• Two entries constitute an event. Events with single entrants will be offered an exhibition or refund. Exhibitions are eligible for nomination and skaters will receive a medal.
• Refunds will not be given for any reason after the closure of entries. This includes, but is not limited to, medical/injury/illness and school/religious schedules. The online processing fees are not refundable. Contested credit card charges will be issued a $35 fee.
• Notification of competition times will be available on www.entryeeze.com. All registered competitors will be notified via email when the schedule is published.

*Skaters must check in at the registration table at least 60 minutes before their events. Any unresolved fees must be paid at this time.

Official notices

All official notices will be posted on www.entryeeze.com and www.skatingclubofphoenix.com. The online schedule is always tentative and subject to change.

Test credit

In accordance with USFSA rules, test credit packets must be requested and paid for prior to the event. Packets cost $10 and are available for purchase in EntryEeze at the time of registration. The packet will be provided electronically via email no later than 2 days after the close of the competition. Hard copies will not be available. Upon receipt of their test credit packets skaters are responsible for registering for IJS test credit with their home clubs or they may also register with the Skating Club of Phoenix for processing.

Test session

A test session is planned in conjunction with the competition on Saturday October 10th, from 6am to 8am. In the event we are not able to accommodate all registered skaters, priority will be given to higher level Skating Skills and Singles, and Ice Dance skaters.

Skaters wishing to register for this session must do so separately from the competition registration via EntryEeze here, selecting ' 2026 SCP In-Person Test Session at AZ Ice Peoria; 10/10, 6-8am '.

Music submission/upload

Competitors must provide music for all events, as appropriate. Competition music for all events that require music must be submitted electronically via the online registration system by the music deadline of Sunday, September 20th , 2026, at 11:59 pm MST . After you have paid for your events, the system will prompt you to upload your music for each event that requires music. If your music is not available at that time, you can log out of your account and return later to upload your music by going to the 'competition' tab and then selecting 'my music'. If you have questions about what format you have, please contact your coach and get a new version of your music that meets the criteria listed below.

Music criteria

1. File Format: MP3 (the online system will automatically check this).
2. Bit Rate: 192 kbps or higher (this will be checked by the music chairperson, and they may request you upload a corrected file).
3. Sample Rate: 44,100 kHz (this will be checked by the music chairperson, and they may request you upload a corrected file).
4. Leaders and Trailers: (the silence or "dead space" before and after the actual start and end of the program music) may not exceed two (2) seconds. We prefer that there be NO leaders or trailers at all. Excessive leaders and trailers may disrupt the playing of the music during competition.

Competitors must also have available a backup copy of their competition music on a cell phone/MP3 player, and it must be immediately available at rink-side whenever the competitor competes. If the phone does not have a standard round headset connector, an appropriate adapter, such as an Apple Lightning connector or Samsung USB-C adapter is required to be attached. The device should be presented to the music person with the file ready to play, phone in airplane mode and volume turned to maximum.

Music that is not submitted by the deadline date will be assessed a $100 admin fee that will be collected at the registration desk before the skater is allowed to skate.

Planned program content (ppc) submission/upload

Competitors are required to submit PPC in EntryEeze no later than Sunday September 20th , 2026, at 11:59PM MST. After this date, skaters will be locked out of this feature in EntryEeze and subject to a $100 late fee . The late fee will automatically be added to each skater's cart who doesn't meet this requirement by the deadline. Late fees will not be removed under any circumstances and must be paid prior to receiving the skater credential onsite.

Refund policy

Refunds will not be given for any reason after the closure of entries. This includes, but is not limited to, medical/injury/illness and school/religious schedules. The online processing fees are not refundable. Contested credit card charges will be issued a $35 fee.

Liability

U.S. Figure Skating, Learn to Skate USA®, Skating Club of Phoenix and AZ Ice Peoria accept no responsibility for injury or damage sustained by any participant in this competition. This is in accordance with Rule 1600 of the official U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook.

IVCompetition details

Facilities

AZ Ice Peoria 15829 N 83rd Ave, Peoria, AZ 85383 (623) 334-1200 https://azicepeoria.com

The competition ice surface (the 'North Pole') is indoors and measures 80' x 200', with slightly rounded corners. The South Pole ice surface is Olympic size. Locker rooms may not be available for competitors. There is a snack bar inside the rink, and many restaurants within walking distance.

Locker rooms and changing areas

Locker rooms and changing areas will not be available this competition. All athletes are expected to arrive at the arena ready (costumes, hair, make-up etc.). Athletes will be provided with an area to put skates on, but changing will not be permitted in these spaces. Be prepared to come to the rink ready to skate and wear hard skate guards.

U.S. figure skating travel policy

All travel must strictly adhere to Two-Deep Leadership requirements. An Adult Participant cannot transport a Minor Athlete one-on-one and Two-Deep Leadership requirements must be adhered to at all times during In-Program travel, by transporting at least two minors who are at least 8 years of age or a second Adult Participant. An Adult Participant cannot share a hotel room or other sleeping arrangement with a Minor Athlete(s). Full details of the SkateSafe® Travel Policy and any exceptions can be found starting on page 12 of the SkateSafe® Handbook.

Results

Results will be posted electronically during the competition for all levels: the website for results will be accessible via www.skatingclubofphoenix.com, QR codes will also be posted in the arena.

Awards

For all events, 1st through 4th place receive a medal. All competitors tied for a place (1-4) will receive a medal for that place.

Schedule

Notification of competition times will be available on www.Entryeeze.com. All registered competitors will be notified via email when the schedule is published.

Practice ice

Practice ice sessions will be available for purchase through AZ Ice Peoria after the schedule has been finalized. Purchase instructions will be emailed to all competitors. Skaters should check in with the rink staff for any questions regarding practice ice. Use the link below to create a rink account to register for practice ice: DaySmart Recreation - AZ Ice Peoria.

Onsite check-in

Registration will be open one hour before the first event and run through the last event of the day. The registration table will be located in the AZ Ice lobby, near the North Pole rink. Please register promptly upon arrival.

Volunteer info

Volunteer sign-ups will be available through Sign-Up Genius, and links will be emailed to participants and posted on www.skatingclubofphoenix.com.

Photo/video & livestream

A professional photographer and videographer will be available. A complimentary live stream of the event will be offered, and the link will be provided to all competitors via email.

• The LOC recommends skaters who have placed 1st through 4th have a group photo taken; purchase of photo is optional.
• Individual photos will be taken upon request regardless of placement.
• Personal cameras/video cameras are permitted but may only be used to film your skater's performance for personal use. It is strictly prohibited to photograph or record any other skater's performance, or portions of performance. The LOC reserves the right to deny admittance to anyone who violates this rule. Only battery powered video units are allowed; electrical cords, tripods (or similar devices) are not permitted in the arena.
• A digital photographer will also be in attendance for professional quality action shots.
• Live and on-demand streaming, and sales and distribution of U.S. Figure Skating sanctioned and approved events, programs, and activities that include the playback of music is strictly prohibited. This prohibition does not apply to the distribution of footage that does not include music. Questions about this can be directed to music@usfigureskating.org.
• A professional video of your performance is included in the registration fee for all events performed to music.
• The Skating Club of Phoenix is pleased to offer a livestream of the full competition, complimentary to all viewers. Livestream will be provided by our videographer Coronado Productions. All skaters will receive a link prior to the competition day.

Contact information

Skating Club of Phoenix presents 2026 Desert West Championship

October 10th & 11th , 2026

AZ Ice Peoria/Peoria, AZ

Competition overview

Desert West will be conducted in accordance with the rules and regulations of U.S. Figure Skating, as set forth in the current rulebook, and/or current Compete USA handbook as well as any pertinent updates that have been posted on the U.S. Figure Skating website.

Liability

U.S. Figure Skating, Learn to Skate USA®, Skating Club of Phoenix and AZ Ice Peoria accept no responsibility for injury or damage sustained by any participant in this competition. This is in accordance with Rule 1600 of the official U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook.

Our community

U.S. Figure Skating is dedicated to fostering a culture of belonging and community that is welcoming for all individuals. We are committed to championing diversity, equity and inclusion and understand its value in combating discrimination and challenging inequalities necessary to develop champions both on and off the ice. We are actively working toward developing equitable practices and policies that foster safety and empower all individuals to authentically pursue their unique path in all areas of our sport. We stand firmly on the belief that our members are the most important asset to our organization and that our differences are meaningful and strengthen our sport. We believe that skating is for everyone.

Non-discrimination

U.S. Figure Skating commits in policy, principle and practice to sustain a non-discriminatory approach on and off the ice for all members. We strive to provide equal opportunity for all despite their varied backgrounds, experiences and identities, and want all members to feel valued and respected at every level of organization. U.S. Figure Skating's SkateSafe® Program receives, investigates and addresses allegations of discrimination or harassment throughout its membership and the organization. Please refer to the SkateSafe® Program Handbook for further definition of harassment, discrimination and abuse.

By attending this event, all participants are willingly committing to upholding U.S. Figure Skating's Code of Ethics ( GR 2.00 ) and Code of Conduct ( GR 3.00 ), as detailed within the U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook.

To report a concern of discrimination or harassment to U.S. Figure Skating, please visit www.USFigureSkating.org/SkateSafe or email SkateSafe@USFigureSkating.org.

Athlete assistance/accommodations

Should a skater with disabilities require any specific accommodations or assistance for their competitive event, please submit your approved S.A.M to the Competition Chair by the registration deadline at competitions@skatingclubofphoenix.com.

Team service personnel

Teams are permitted a maximum of two team service personnel. Team service personnel must have a current U.S. Figure Skating or Learn to Skate USA® membership, a green lighted background check and completed SafeSport™ Training. All compliance requirements must be met at the time of check-in to access the competition, no exceptions. Team service personnel is defined as those indicated as a team manager and/or team service personnel planning to attend the competition with the team.

Mandatory athletes

Athletes age 18+ as of the competition start date who will be competing on a team (i.e., synchro, ice dance, pairs, shadow dance, theatre, etc.) with at least one Minor Athlete must complete SafeSport™ Training.

*Minor athletes who turn 18 mid-season are encouraged to seek parental consent to take the online SafeSport™ Training early to avoid any disruptions in their ability to participate as the training is required upon turning 18. The athlete will not be compliant until they have completed the training and their Members Only portal reflects completion. Please email skatesafe@usfigureskating.org for instructions or questions regarding parental consent.

Eligibility rules for participants

The competition is open to ALL skaters who are current members of either Learn to Skate USA® and/or those who are full members of U.S. Figure Skating (including Aspire). Members of other organizations are eligible to compete but must be a current registered member of Learn to Skate USA® or a full member of U.S. Figure Skating. There will be no more than six competitors maximum in an event, and all six should receive an award.

Eligibility and test requirements

Eligibility will be based on skill level as of closing date of entries. All Snowplow Sam and Basic 1-6 skaters must skate at highest level passed or one level higher, and NO official U.S. Figure Skating tests may have been passed, including skating skills or individual dances.

For the Aspire 1-4, Well-Balanced, Adult and Adaptive levels, eligibility will be based only upon highest badge level or Singles test level passed. Skate United skaters have the option to compete in the standard track or Skate United badge levels; accommodations may be made upon request. Skating Skills test level will not determine a skater's competitive level. Skaters may skate at highest level passed OR one level higher but not both levels in the same event during the same competition.

Eligibility rules for coaches/instructors

To be credentialed at a Compete USA event, individuals' coaches are required to have:

• Learn to Skate USA® Instructor membership OR U.S. Figure Skating full membership
• Safe Sport training completed (for coaches/instructors 18 years old and older)
• Background check successfully passed (for coaches/instructors 18 years old and over)
• Learn to Skate USA Instructor Certification completed OR U.S. Figure Skating compliant coach (for coaches under 18 years old)

Entries and fees

All entries must be registered through www.entryeeze.com. Paper entries will not be accepted. Late entries will be accepted only if the limit has not been reached, at the discretion of the organizers. Entry fees are per person. NO refunds after closing date unless event is canceled by Skating Club of Phoenix.

Program requirements for the events listed above may be found here: usfigureskating.org - Skate - Compete - Program Requirements .

The CJS judging system will be used for all events.

Registration

The registration desk will be in the lobby of AZ Ice-Peoria and will be open during the competition, beginning 1 hour prior to the first event through the end of the last event. Regardless of coach preference, it is the skater's sole responsibility to check in with the registration desk a minimum of one (1) hour prior to their event. Failure to check in with the registration desk within the required time frame may result in the skater's withdrawal.

Judging

Results

Results will be posted electronically during the competition for all levels: the website for results will be accessible via www.skatingclubofphoenix.com, QR codes will also be posted in the arena.

Awards

Medals will be awarded to all competitors. All awards will be given immediately following the posting of results.

Schedule of events

A complete schedule of events and groupings will be posted on www.entryeeze.com approximately 14 days prior to the start of competition. Competitors may be scheduled on any day or time during the announced dates of the competition.

Practice ice

Practice ice sessions will be available for purchase through AZ Ice Peoria after the schedule has been finalized. Purchase instructions will be emailed to all competitors. Skaters should check in with the rink staff for any questions regarding practice ice. Use the link below to create a rink account to register for practice ice:

Locker rooms

Locker rooms and changing areas will not be available this competition. All athletes are expected to arrive at the arena ready (costumes, hair, make-up etc.). Athletes will be provided with an area to put skates on, but changing will not be permitted in these spaces. Be prepared to come to the rink ready to skate and wear hard skate guards.

Music

The music for all free skating programs and showcase must be uploaded to EntryEeze no later than 11.59pm AZ time on Sunday September 20th , 2026.

Late music will incur a $100 fee per instance, which must be paid prior to the skater's event, or they will be disqualified and unable to skate .

Competitors must also have available a backup copy of their competition music on a cell phone, and it must be immediately available rink-side whenever the skater competes. If the phone does not have the standard round headset connector, an appropriate adapter, such as an Apple Lightning connector or Samsung USB-C adapter is required to be attached. The phone should be presented to the music person with the file ready to play, phone in airplane mode and volume turned to maximum.

Photography and video

Spectators are reminded that flash photography is dangerous and will be strictly prohibited . A professional photographer and videographer will be available. A complimentary live stream of the event will be offered; the link will be provided to all competitors via email.

• The LOC recommends skaters who have placed 1st through 4th have a group photo taken; purchase of photo is optional.
• Individual photos will be taken upon request regardless of placement.
• Live and on-demand streaming, and sales and distribution of U.S. Figure Skating sanctioned and approved events, programs, and activities that include the playback of music is strictly prohibited. This prohibition does not apply to the distribution of footage that does not include music. Questions about this can be directed to music@usfigureskating.org.
• Personal cameras/video cameras are permitted but may only be used to film your skater's performance for personal use. It is strictly prohibited to photograph or record any other skater's performance, or portions of performance. The LOC reserves the right to deny admittance to anyone who violates this rule. Only battery powered video units are allowed; electrical cords, tripods (or similar devices) are not permitted in the arena.
• A professional video of your performance is included in the registration fee for all events performed to music. Video is NOT available for events without music, such as: Jumps Challenge, Spins Challenge, Compulsories, etc.
• A digital photographer will also be in attendance for professional quality action shots.

Vendors

It is anticipated that several vendors will be present. Please check our website for the list of vendors.

U.S. figure skating travel policy

All travel must strictly adhere to Two-Deep Leadership requirements. An Adult Participant cannot transport a Minor Athlete one-on-one and Two-Deep Leadership requirements must be adhered to at all times during In-Program travel, by transporting at least two minors who are at least 8 years of age or a second Adult Participant. An Adult Participant cannot share a hotel room or other sleeping arrangement with a Minor Athlete(s). Full details of the SkateSafe® Travel Policy and any exceptions can be found starting on page 12 of the SkateSafe® Handbook.

Facilities

AZ Ice Peoria

15829 N 83rd Ave, Peoria, AZ 85383 (623) 334-1200 https://azicepeoria.com

The competition ice surface (the 'North Pole') is indoors and measures 80' x 200', with slightly rounded corners. The South Pole ice surface is Olympic size. Locker rooms may not be available for competitors. There is a snack bar inside the rink, and many restaurants within walking distance.

Contact information

Competition website: www.skatingclubofphoenix.com/competitions For questions, please contact: competitions@skatingclubofphoenix.com

Snowplow Sam - Basic 6: Elements

Skater will perform one element at a time in the order listed below (no excessive connecting steps or choreography). Judge/referee directed example: all skaters perform first element before moving on to the next and so on, or each skater performs all the required elements before moving on to the next skater.

• To be skated on 1/3 to 1/2 ice (determined by the LOC)
• No music
• Divide Snowplow Sam skaters by level (1-4), if registrations warrant
• All elements must be skated in the order listed
• Skaters with physical disabilities may register for standard track or Skate United Track for events §

Snowplow Sam - Basic 6: Program with Music

The skating order of the required elements is optional. The elements are not restricted as to the number of times the element is executed or length of glides, number of revolutions, etc., unless otherwise specified.

• To be skated on full ice with music
• The skater may use elements from a previous level
• A 0.2 deduction will be taken for each element performed from a higher level. Bonus skills from the same level or below are allowed, but will not be judged elements
• Divide Snowplow Sam skaters by level (1-4), if registrations warrant
• Skaters with physical disabilities may register for standard track or Skate United Track for events

Aspire 1-4: Compulsory

In simple program form, using a limited number of connecting steps, the skating order of the required elements is optional.

• To be skated on half-ice
• No music
• The skater must demonstrate the required elements listed
• Bonus skills from the same level or below are allowed but will not be judged elements
• A 0.2 deduction will be taken for each element performed from a higher level

Aspire 1-4: Program with Music

The skating order of the required elements is optional. The elements are not restricted as to the number of times an element is executed, length of glides, number of revolutions, etc., unless otherwise stated. Connecting steps and transitions should be demonstrated throughout the program.

• To be skated on full ice
• The skater must demonstrate the required elements and may use but is not required to use any additional elements from previous levels
• Bonus skills from the same level or below are allowed but will not be judged elements
• A 0.2 deduction will be taken for each element performed from a higher level

Adult 1-6: Compulsory

• The skating order of the elements is optional. Element may only be attempted once
• To be skated in simple program format with limited connecting steps
• A 0.2 deduction will be taken for each element missing, repeated, or from a higher level

Adult 1-6 Free Skate with Music

• The skating order of the required elements is optional
• The elements are not restricted to the number of times element is executed, or length of glides, number of revolutions, etc. unless otherwise stated; connecting moves and steps should be demonstrated throughout the program
• To be skated on full ice
• Skater must demonstrate the required elements and may use, but is not required to use, any additional elements from previous (lower) levels
• A 0.2 deduction will be taken for each required element missing and for those elements performed from a higher level

General event parameters

• Spins may be skated in any order (minimum number of revolutions are noted in parentheses)
• Connecting steps are allowed but will not be taken into consideration when scoring
• Spins may not be repeated; only required elements may be included
• Layback spins are not permitted in Level 1 or Level 2
• All events are skated on half-ice
• Applicable deductions:
  • a. Time Violations
• up to every 10 seconds in excess = 0.1
  • a. Fall Deductions (only in elements performed)
• for each fall = -0.1

Jumps Challenge

General event parameters

• Each jump may be attempted twice; the best attempt will be counted
• To be skated on half ice
• Elements not according to requirements will receive no value
• . Applicable deductions:
  • a. Time Violations
• 6.0 - for up to every 10 seconds in excess = 0.1
  • b. Fall Deductions
• 6.0 - for each fall = -0.1

Spins Challenge

Showcase Events

Showcase events are open to skaters at the levels listed below. Groups will be divided by number of entries and ages if possible. Skaters with physical disabilities may register for standard track or Skate United track. Skaters with intellectual disabilities may register for Special Olympics events. Skaters must enter at the same level as their free skate event or highest test level of skaters in the group ensemble or production number. If a free skate event is not being entered, skaters must enter at their current test level or one level higher.

Show costumes are permitted if they do not touch or drag on the ice. Costuming and make up for showcase programs should enhance the feeling created by the performance and reflect the meaning of the story or theme. Ornaments and hair accessories must be secure. No bobby pins, feathers, hair accessories or anything else that may fall to the ice and be hazardous to the skaters are allowed. (a 0.1 deduction will be taken). Props and scenery must be placed and removed by unaided singles and duet competitors within one minute on and off and by unaided ensemble contestants within two minutes for setup and two minutes for removal. A 0.1 deduction will be assessed by the referee against each judge's mark for every 10 seconds in excess of the time allowed for the performance, for handling props and scenery and for scenery assistance.

Performances will be judged from an entertainment standpoint for theatrical qualities. Technical skating skills and difficulty will not be rewarded as such; however, skating must be the major element of the performance and be of sufficient quality to support the selected theatrical elements. Unintended falls, poorly executed skating elements and obvious loss of control will reduce contestants' marks. Jump difficulty is not rewarded in showcase; therefore jumps, if choreographed, should be performed with style, flow and confidence. Theatrical elements evaluated will include energy, poise, acting, pantomime, eye contact, choreography, form/extension and the use of props and ice. Deductions will be made for skaters including technical elements not permitted in the event description.

*For specific guidelines regarding the conduct of showcase competitions, refer to the showcase guidelines posted on usfigureskating.org. In order to qualify for National Showcase, skaters competing in Preliminary and above must compete in events using the Component Judging System (CJS).

Showcase categories may include:

• Character Performance: Skaters will impersonate a character, original or adapted, on the ice. Performances as a character from a movie, musical, book, original idea, original adaptation are all welcome here.
• Lip synching is required
• Props and Scenery are permitted
• Technical Limitations: maximum of 2 jumps, jump combinations, or jump sequences
• Comedic Impressions: A humorous performance intentionally designed to achieve continuous/multiple chuckles, laughs, or audible rises from viewers. Performance is projected outward towards audience and entertaining through skating movements, gestures and physical actions deemed comedic.
• Lip synching is permitted
• Props and Scenery are permitted
• Technical Limitations: maximum of 2 jumps, jump combinations, or jump sequences
• Lyrical Pop: Skaters will perform to a vocal song with lyrics, allowing them to express themselves through the content and narrative of the music.
• Lip synching is not permitted
• Props and Scenery are not permitted
• Technical Limitations: maximum of 2 jumps, jump combinations, or jump sequences
• Duets/Trios: Theatrical/artistic performances by two to three skaters.

* Levels can be subdivided or combined, if necessary, at Compete USA levels depending on entry numbers and event set up to ensure performances are contested as per the guidelines.

Interpretive

The local organizing committee (LOC) must pre-select and edit musical choices appropriate for these events. During the warm-up, skaters will hear the selection of music twice. Following the warm-up, all skaters except for the first skater will be escorted to a soundproof locker room or another area of the arena. The first skater will hear the music one more time and then perform a program to the music. As each skater performs, the next skater in line will be allowed to hear the music for the third time before they perform to the music. The listening skater will not be allowed to view the performing skater.

Levels: Levels should be broken by ability with ages divided appropriately.

Judging Rules: Skaters are judged on originality, pattern, technical (the ability to include jumps and spins) and music interpretation/expression. Spins and jumps performed must be appropriate to competition level.

Time: Music Duration for all levels: Up to 1:30 max

Coaching: There is to be no instruction allowed during this event from coaches, parents or fellow skaters. Staging area must be kept clear except for ice monitor and listening competitor.