Checklist for Testing and Competition

The first and most important thing with testing or competitions is to get your paperwork filled out properly and turned in on time.

Complete the Test/Competition application; fill in all requested information, including your USFS number, and have your Pro, parent/guardian, and a BFSC Officer sign the application.
Submit completed application and fees prior to the deadline (Do not submit test applications more than 45 days prior to deadline, they will be returned).
Be able to provide proof of having passed the prerequisite test requirement, if requested.
If you have a special need or request, let the test chair or competition registrars know as far in advance as possible. Accommodations will not always be guaranteed.
If after applying for a test, you find that you cannot make it, notify the test chair immediately. Once the test schedule is posted no refunds will be given unless for medical emergencies. No refunds past 21 days before the test date.
Confer with your Pro about your competition or test attire so you are sure to be dressed appropriately.

Practice Ice at Competition Venue

When available, sign up for a practice ice session prior to the competition. Read instructions regarding the price and duration of the practice ice session. Some sessions allow for the skater’s music to be played and some do not. Most practice ice sessions include a small number of competitors on the ice at the same time. Practice ice time helps the skater fit the program to the size or orientation of the ice rink and provide a real confidence boost a day or two before the official competition.

Day of Test or Competition

Plan to arrive one hour prior to your scheduled warm-up time, unless instructed otherwise. The schedule frequently runs ahead. Bring with you:

Skates
Hard Blade Guards and soakers
Skating outfit(s)
CD with your program music plus a backup copy
Jump rope or other warm-up equipment
Water and snacks
Extra boot laces
Girls - extra pair of tights
Girls – hair accessories, makeup supplies
Repair kit – screwdriver, skate polish, nail polish remover, band-aids, needle and thread, safety pins, blister pads.
Something to do quietly until test/competition time (book, Walkman/iPod with headphones, etc.)
Blanket and pads or stadium seats.
Shoes and warm clothing that you can wear in between events.

Dress properly for the test

Girls: nice dresses and sweater, hair tied back from the face, light make-up optional
Boys: nice pants and top.

Check In

Upon arriving at the rink check in with the registrar or assistant and determine if there have been any schedule changes. Turn in your CD. Make sure your CD is clearly marked with your name, skating level and time of the program. Keep your voice down so as not to interrupt another skater’s concentration. Have your skates on and be ready to get on the ice when your warm up group is called. Be aware of which end of the ice you will be starting your test.

During a Test

Prior to starting your test introduce yourself to the judging panel.
Wait for a signal (usually a verbal “okay” or a nod) from the judge-in-charge or other official prior to starting the test and each move.
During Moves in the Field tests you may speak BRIEFLY with your Pro. However, skaters should be ready to start when signaled to do so.
At the conclusion of your test do not leave the ice until dismissed (usually a verbal “thank you”) by your judging panel.
If the judges request a re-skate of an element let the judges know whether you plan to warm it up (free skating tests only) or just do it. Also, you may speak briefly with your Pro.

After a Test

Copies of your test papers will be given to you so you can see the results and read the judges comments.
If you pass your test you will receive a patch for the level of test you passed.
Be mindful of other skaters’ feelings.
Retrieve your CD (Freeskate tests only).
Thank the judges and those in charge of the test session. Remember they are volunteering their time for you.
Make sure you have all of your belongings before departing the rink.

See Scoring Competitions for more information.