*Please note that our policies are living documents and are therefore subject to change.

 VERNON FIGURE SKATING CLUB (VFSC) POLICIES: 

 Payments:

• Registration must be completed online with payment made in full or an instalment plan set up. Accepted credit cards are Visa or Mastercard, please send all e-transfers to vfscreg@gmail.com password: skater
• Skate Canada Registration is mandatory and must be paid prior to the start of each skating season (Sept. 1 – Aug. 31). This fee is non-refundable.
• If Applicable ~STARSkate lessons, competition travel expenses, are billed separately by the Coach and are in addition to Program Fees.

Refund Policy:

Refund Policy - 2025/26

VFSC does not offer refunds except in the case of medical circumstances where the skater has missed a minimum of 3 consecutive weeks of skating due to illness or injury. Requests must be submitted to the VFSC Board in writing accompanied by a dated doctor’s note stating restrictions, recommendations, and if the skater can or cannot return for the remainder of the season. Refunds will be considered on an individual basis. A $20 service fee may be charged for processing refund requests. The Skate Canada fee is non-refundable.

Skaters are not permitted to sell or trade sessions. If you miss your regular session on a particular day, you may not skate on another session in lieu of the one you missed without paying a buy-on fee. You may not have another skater or member of your family skate on sessions for days that you are away without paying a buy-on fee.

*As a courtesy please text/phone any lateness, absences, changes to our Club Coaches phone 250-260-6632. 

Any concerns, withdrawals, cancellations please email vernonskatingclub@gmail.com

Financial Support:

• Financial assistance for program costs may be available. Use the links below to see each organization’seligibility requirements
•  KidSport Vernon (https://kidsportcanada.ca/british-columbia/greater-vernon/apply-for-a-grant/)  
• Canadian Tire JumpStart (https://jumpstart.canadiantire.ca/pages/apply)

Liability:

• By participating in Skating programs offered by Vernon Figure Skating Club (VFSC) and Skate Canada, neither the Club nor Skate Canada shall be liable for any injury, loss, or damage suffered during Skating activities. Participants or their legal guardians indemnify the Club and Skate Canada against any claims arising from such incidents.
• Vernon Figure Skating Club (VFSC) is not responsible for class cancellations due to unavailable ice but will make efforts to reschedule if possible.

Privacy:

• Personal information provided will be held confidentially and used only for intended purposes. Information will not be sold, rented, loaned, traded, or leased.
• Links to third-party websites on our website are not governed by our privacy policy. Please review the privacy policies of third-party websites.

Parent Fundraiser and Volunteer Commitment:

• Fundraising and volunteering are essential for the Club's success. Each family is expected to participate regularly to keep program costs affordable.

*Refer to VFSC Fundraising Policy

Vernon Figure Skating Club (VFSC) and Skate Canada’s Code of Ethics

Purpose:

The purpose of Skate Canada’s Code of Ethics is to establish expectations and guiding principles for appropriate decision-making and behavior within the organization.

Scope:

This code of ethics applies to all individuals associated with Skate Canada and its affiliate organizations, including skaters, officials, coaches, employees, board members, volunteers, alumni, hall of fame members, parents, and guardians participating in or observing related activities.

Code of Ethics:

• Individuals shall conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the highest standards, aligned with Skate Canada’s vision and mission, and centered around the well-being of athletes.
• All people shall be treated with respect, dignity, and sportsmanship.
• The athlete’s well-being as a person shall be prioritized over their success or the individual’s success in the sport.
• Professional conduct shall be maintained in all interactions related to Skate Canada activities.
• Positive discipline methods shall be utilized, including setting fair rules, listening, problem-solving, and encouragement. Harmful methods such as hitting, name-calling, yelling, or intimidation shall not be employed.
• Any conflict of interest shall be disclosed, and individuals shall not allow themselves to be influenced in a manner conflicting with the organization’s best interests or reputation.
• Behavior intended to manipulate competition or test outcomes is prohibited.
• The coach/athlete relationship shall be respected, and soliciting athletes from other coaches is prohibited.
• Exploitative, abusive, or corrupt relationships are strictly prohibited, and individuals shall act with kindness and integrity.
• Support for an inclusive sport environment is mandated, irrespective of any discriminatory factors prohibited by human rights legislation.
• Compliance with the International Skating Union’s Code of Ethics at all ISU events is required.
• Advocacy and practice of Safe Sport principles are mandatory.
• Participation in abusive, criminal, or human rights-disrespecting activities, or any activities risking Skate Canada’s reputation, is prohibited.
• Adherence to all relevant laws at federal, provincial, municipal, and host country levels is required.
• Prompt notification to Skate Canada regarding any new criminal charges, ongoing investigations, convictions, or bail conditions is mandatory.
• Coercion into sexual activity or unethical/criminal behavior using power or authority is strictly prohibited.
• Sexual behavior or exploitation with children or youth is strictly prohibited.
• Bullying, harassment, discrimination, abuse, neglect, intimidation, or exploitation in any form are strictly prohibited.
• Technology and social media shall not be used to disrespect or exploit others.
• Abuse or exploitation of children or youth is strictly prohibited, and any observed or suspected instances must be reported to the appropriate authorities and Skate Canada.
• Possession, use, or promotion of illegal substances or performance-enhancing drugs is strictly prohibited.

Compliance with all Skate Canada bylaws, policies, and rules is required, including staying informed of any amendments or updates.

Covering up or concealing violations of this Code is prohibited, and individuals must report any breaches.

Full cooperation with Skate Canada’s investigations is mandatory.

Violations of this Code may result in disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion from Skate Canada.

Communicable Disease Prevention Plan

The Vernon Figure Skating Club (VFSC) is committed to adhering to the PHO Workplace Safety Order and following WorkSafeBC guidance and regulations.

Requirements for VFSCMembers:

All members of the Vernon Figure Skating Club (VFSC) must adhere to the PHO Workplace Safety Order and comply with WorkSafeBC guidance and regulations.

For detailed information, please refer to: WorkSafeBC COVID-19 Prevention

Transition to Communicable Disease Prevention Plan:

With the province's transition to Step 3 of BC’s Restart Plan, workplace guidance has shifted to Communicable Disease Prevention Plans (CDPP). These plans aim to provide general guidance for protecting workplaces from infectious disease risks, including COVID-19 and other illnesses such as seasonal influenza. Key focus areas include preventative measures such as handwashing, personal hygiene practices, cleaning protocols, staying home when sick, and guidelines for addressing increased local COVID-19 transmission. The Vernon Figure Skating Club (VFSC) has consequently transitioned from a COVID-19 Safety Plan to a Communicable Disease Prevention Plan in accordance with directives from the Provincial Health Officer (PHO).

Skater Information and Expectations

To uphold the highest safety standards and ensure optimal working conditions for all skaters, adherence to the following rules is expected. These rules will be enforced by club executives and coaches. Infractions may result in a warning initially, with serious infractions leading to suspension for the remainder of the day or week, and further action if necessary.

General Guidelines:

• Only water is permitted on the boards; snacking during sessions is prohibited. Skaters may have a snack before or after the session, with exceptions for medical conditions such as diabetes.

Safety Guidelines:

1.     Courtesy: Respect the rights of fellow skaters and be vigilant of your surroundings, especially in mixed-skill environments. Strive to avoid collisions.

2.     Right of Way: Priority is given to skaters unaware of potential collisions. Yield to skaters performing programs or taking lessons. If obstructed, politely request passage.

3.     Jumping Areas: Avoid standing, spinning, or teaching near jump corners or boards where edge jumps occur, particularly Lutz corners. Exercise caution as the approach to a Lutz is often blind.

4.     Falls and Injuries: Promptly rise after a fall to enhance visibility for other skaters. Assist fallen skaters cautiously; summon a coach if serious injury is suspected.

5.     Continuous Movement: Keep moving to minimize congestion and hazards on the ice. Avoid stationery socializing to maximize ice usage and safety.

Additional Points:

• Inappropriate language, whether on or off the ice, will not be tolerated.
• Skaters must promptly and respectfully respond to coach directions; disregard or disrespect may result in lesson termination.
• The Vernon Figure Skating Club (VFSC) bears no responsibility for injuries sustained during skating seasons.
• Valuables should not be left in change rooms; the club assumes no liability for loss.
• Skaters must notify their coach if unable to attend a session and must be punctual.
• Permission from a coach is required to leave the ice during a session.
• Appropriate skating attire must be always worn, no jeans, scarves, loose clothing, or hooded sweaters. Hair must be tied back.
• Garbage must be disposed of properly in designated containers.
• Guards must be worn off the ice to protect blades.
• Club rooms, change rooms, Off Ice spaces must be cleared of debris after each session to maintain access.
• Headphones or cellphones are prohibited on the ice or in the dressing room.
• Disruptive behavior during on ice or off-ice practices may result in removal from the session.

STARSkate Parent Information and expectations:

Information:

Coaching:

Skaters participating in STARSkate sessions must have a coach overseeing their skating.

The Vernon Figure Skating Club (VFSC) operates within a team coaching framework. For questions or concerns regarding your skater, please email skatingvfsc@gmail.com or text/phone the Club Coach Cell 250-260-6632

Common Concerns Regarding Coaching:

• If Applicable each coach is responsible for invoicing skaters for their lessons, with payments to be made directly to the coach within 30 days of receiving the invoice. Late payments may incur additional fees. Failure to pay invoices for two consecutive months will result in the skater ceasing to receive lessons. If financial difficulties arise, contact the coaches to make suitable arrangements.

• Lesson Time: Lesson allocation is determined by the coaching team based on factors such as level, needs, and upcoming competitions. Parents and skaters must respect the coaches' decisions regarding lesson distribution.

• Testing: Coaches decide when a skater is ready to attempt a test, prioritizing the skater's best interests.

• Levels: Coaches have the authority to assess and determine the registered training session and competition level for each skater based on their familiarity with session requirements and standards.

• Receiving Lessons from Other Coaches: Skaters and parents are prohibited from seeking lessons from coaches outside the Vernon Figure Skating Club (VFSC) without prior discussion and approval from the VFSC coaching team. Doing so without discussion will cause a halt in skaters’ progression, as well as disruption and confusion to VFSC skater sessions. This is to ensure a smooth and fair experience for all VFSC skaters and members.

• Communication with Coaches: Regular communication with coaches is encouraged but should occur at designated times agreed upon in advance. Interrupting coaches during sessions disrupts lesson time for other skaters .  Off-ice training is an integral component of skater development. When included in program fees, attendance is expected to support skill progression and class continuity. Skaters who need to depart early for urgent or pre-scheduled commitments should communicate with the coach supervising the session.

Parent Expectations:

• Treat all skaters, coaches, and volunteers with respect.

• • Trust the professional judgment of coaches in overseeing your child's skating progress. Coaches reserve the right to resign from coaching a skater if parental behavior compromises coaching effectiveness.
  • Seek clarification from board members or coaches regarding any uncertainties to ensure accurate information, as gossip or speculative discussion in spectator areas can spread misinformation and undermine a positive environment

• Minimize pressure on skaters, allowing them to focus on their performance positively.

• If you need to communicate with your child during a session, do so discreetly off the ice to avoid distractions.

• Ensure your child understands rink rules and etiquette.

• Maintain a positive attitude towards your child's skating journey.

• Timely payment of coaching and club fees is expected.

• Regular, appropriate communication with coaches via email or arranged meetings is encouraged.

• Ensure your skater is punctual for all sessions and notify the coach in case of lateness or absence.

• Above all, prioritize your skater's enjoyment of the sport.

 Coaching from the sidelines:

 In the Vernon Figure Skating Club (VFSC), we value a positive and supportive environment for all our skaters. We kindly ask that parents/family/friends/guardians refrain from coaching from the sidelines during practices and competitions. Our dedicated coaches are here to guide and support the skaters to reach their full potential. To ensure a smooth and fair experience for everyone, families will receive one formal reminder about this policy. If coaching from the sidelines persists, it may result in a temporary suspension for your child. Trust is crucial in fostering a successful skating community, and we appreciate you’re understanding and cooperation in maintaining a nurturing environment for all our young athletes.

 Acknowledgement:

• By signing up and electronically agreeing, you confirm that you've read, understood, and agree to follow all the rules on this website, including terms of service, privacy policy, and code of conduct.
• Failure to comply may lead to disciplinary action, including access termination.
• You affirm your legal authority to agree to these terms for yourself or any group you represent.
• If you disagree with any of our policies, please refrain from registering.