Learn-To-Skate Program Begins Tonight At JSBIABy The Post-Journal Staff9/26/2007 - Professionally supervised recreational ice skating classes for skaters age 5 through adult will begin tonight for seven weeks at the Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena.  Members of the Jamestown Skating Academy prepare for the ice skating classes that begin tonight at 6 at the Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena. In front, from the left, are Sydni Miller, Mikayla Johnson and Ashytyn Warner. In back, from the left are Rebekah Casey, Kirk Wyse and Lenel van den Berg. Kirk Wyse and Lenel van den Berg, co-directors of the Jamestown Skating Academy, and their staff will conduct the classes, which are designed for skaters from beginner through advanced levels. This program has been incredibly successful over the years. We have discovered some awesome talent through these classes, van den Berg said. Now in its 20th year, the classes will run from 6-6:50 p.m. each Wednesday. The fee is $65. Skaters will be learning the fundamentals of the sport, which will improve their balance, agility, turning, stopping, and confidence. Very good skates both hockey and figure are available to rent at the arena for $2.50. We always recommend that kids rent the skates to begin with, Wyse said. Parents should be sure their skater really enjoys the sport before investing in skates. In addition, the classes will include a 20-minute group lesson and 30 minutes of practice time. All skaters ages 7 and under must wear a bike helmet, and everyone should dress warmly, and gloves are a must. New skaters can join at any time and fees will be prorated at $10 per class. I cant believe this is my 20th season of ice skating classes, van den Berg said. I feel like Ive taught almost every kid in town. This is a fun program that has been carefully developed by U.S. Figure Skating, the governing body of our sport, Wyse said. The kids love it and come back year after year. Added van den Berg: If your child has expressed any interest in learning to skate than this program is a must. All registered members of the learn-to-skate program will receive an official basic skills membership card; a basic skills record book with stickers; an official basic skills member patch and a year patch. For more information or to register for the classes, call 664-6609. Registration can also be done at the door, but be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes ahead.
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