Registration FAQ (All Programs)
General Club FAQs
What programs does SMFSC offer?
We offer STARSkate, CanSkate, and Adult Skate programs. We do not offer CanPower (Hockey Skills) at this time.
Is your club only for figure skating?
STARSkate is a figure skating program. CanSkate and Adult Skate provide foundational skating development for all ice sports.
Parent Roles & Supervision
Can I drop my child off at the rink?
Yes. Parents may drop skaters off; however, we recommend that younger skaters are escorted into the rink.
For CanSkate programs, a parent or responsible adult must remain in the facility, preferably rink-side, in case assistance is needed.
Can parents go on the ice?
No. Only Skate Canada members are permitted on the ice for insurance and safety reasons.
Can parents coach from the viewing area?
No. For safety and instructional integrity, coaching or instruction from the stands or rink-side is not permitted. Skaters must remain focused on their coaches during sessions.
Skate Canada Fee
Do I need to pay the Skate Canada membership fee more than once per season?
No. The Skate Canada membership fee is an annual fee valid from September 1 to August 31, regardless of when you register.
This fee is required by Skate Canada and is not retained by the club. It is non-refundable.
Account Setup
I've never registered with SMFSC before. How do I create an account?
Click “Login” (top right). Select “First Time Registering with SMFSC” and follow the registration instructions.
Registration Access
Why do I need to complete registration quickly?
Program space is limited. A spot is only confirmed once payment is completed.
Why don’t I see a “Register” button for a session?
Registration opens at different times for different programs. If the button is missing, registration is not yet open.
Fees
What are the additional fees on my invoice?
Fees include an annual Skate Canada membership (valid Sep 1–Aug 31) and a club administration fee that varies depending on registration timing.
Registration & Checkout Issues (STARSkate only)
I can’t add programs to my cart or complete checkout (items highlighted in red). Why?
This applies to STARSkate registrations only. Eligibility and session requirements are based on your skater’s previous tests and achievements.
Please ensure you are logged into your existing account.
You can review eligibility here: My Account → My Participants → Select Skater → Achievements
If information is missing or incorrect, please email info@smfsc.ca before registration opens so we can update your profile.
Support
Who do I contact for help?
Email info@smfsc.ca. Response time is typically 48–72 hours.
Wait List
Is there a fee to join the waitlist?
No. Joining a waitlist is free of charge.
How do I join a waitlist?
If a class is full, the “Register” button will be replaced with a “Waitlist” option.
To join:
- Click “Waitlist” on the desired session
- Select the skater from your profile
- Confirm placement
If a space becomes available, you will receive an email notification and will have a limited time to either:
- Complete registration, or
- Remove yourself from the waitlist
How will I know my waitlist position?
You can view your status at any time: My Account → My Waitlist
Does the waitlist carry forward?
No. Waitlists are session-specific and do not carry forward.
Withdrawals & Transfers
What is the refund deadline for programs?
Refund eligibility is based on the program’s published withdrawal deadline, which varies by session and season. Please refer to program details.
Can I withdraw after the deadline?
If you register after the withdrawal deadline, you may still withdraw up until the end of your first few scheduled classes, depending on the program.
How do I withdraw from a program?
All withdrawals must be submitted by email to info@smfsc.ca.
Please include:
- Skater’s name
- Program and skating day
- Parent/guardian name
- Address
- Reason for withdrawal
Refunds are processed in accordance with SMFSC’s Terms & Operations.
How do I transfer to another class?
Class transfers are not automated. Please email info@smfsc.ca to request a change.
Transfers are subject to space availability and applicable administrative fees (where noted).
Can I switch classes temporarily and return?
No. Temporary movement between classes is not permitted. Permanent transfers may be considered if space allows, but skaters cannot move back and forth between sessions.
Are credits available after the withdrawal deadline?
No. Credits are not issued after the withdrawal deadline, except as outlined in SMFSC’s Terms & Operations (e.g., eligible medical withdrawals).
Equipment Requirements
What equipment is required?
All participants must provide their own equipment, including properly fitted skates and gloves.
CanSkate participants must wear a CSA-approved hockey helmet until completion of Stage 5.
What kind of skates should skaters use?
CanSkate: figure, hockey, or recreational skates (properly fitted)
STARSkate: properly fitted figure skates for jumps, spins, and advanced skills
Are helmets required for CanSkate?
Yes. All CanSkate participants must wear a CSA-approved hockey helmet until completion of Stage 5. Helmets must fit properly and are not available for borrowing.
Are molded skates recommended?
No. Molded skates are not recommended for instructional skating as they reduce control and may slow development. They are suitable for recreational public skating only.
CanSkate FAQ
Suitability of Program
Is CanSkate only for figure skating?
No. CanSkate builds strong fundamentals for all ice sports, including hockey and ringette.
Does my child need skating experience to join?
No. The program is designed for both new and developing skaters.
Can siblings or different levels skate in the same session?
Yes. All CanSkate levels run within the same session and skaters are grouped by ability.
What is the coach-to-skater ratio?
Typically 8–12 skaters per group with a professional coach and assistants.
Is CanSkate advanced enough for my child?
By completion, skaters develop forward/backward stroking, crosscuts, turns, stops, basic spins, and jumps.
What if my child is too advanced for CanSkate?
Skaters may be assessed for STARSkate. Based on evaluation, they may transition or receive a refund.
Do you offer power skating?
No. SMFSC does not offer power skating at this time.
Placement in CanSkate
How is my child placed if they have previous skating experience?
All new skaters begin in Stage 1 and are assessed by coaches for progression. Skaters transferring from another Skate Canada club are placed based on their previous club’s final level.
STARSkate FAQ
STARSkate Program & Placement
How is my child placed in STARSkate?
Placement is based on skill level, previous experience, tests, and coach assessment.
Can skaters register for only one session per week?
Skaters are generally expected to register for two on-ice sessions per week and receive priority during registration.
Requests for fewer sessions may be considered after the withdrawal period, subject to space and coach approval. A minimum of two sessions per week is required for testing and club participation.
Can I register at multiple Skate Canada clubs?
Yes, provided skaters:
- Skate a minimum of two SMFSC sessions per week
- Receive instruction from SMFSC coaches on SMFSC ice
- Designate a home club
- Follow Skate Canada testing rules and approvals
Coaches & Lessons
How do I know how many private lessons my child needs?
This should be discussed regularly with your child’s coach.
How do I change coaches?
Coach changes must follow proper etiquette and Skate Canada guidelines, including communication between coaches and should occur at natural breaks in the season where possible.
Who do I speak to about concerns with a coach?
Start with your coach directly. All coaches follow SMFSC’s Coaches’ Code of Conduct and will address concerns professionally.
