FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

DO I NEED TO HAVE MY OWN EQUIPMENT TO LEARN HOW TO ICE SKATE?

Each athlete will be sized and assigned: a pair of skates, a walker if necessary and a helmet, prior to entering the ice, for one entire season. All equipment is the property of Gliding Stars of Central Florida and is included as a part of our annual season fee for each athlete. All personal equipment that an athlete would like to use during our season must be approved by our equipment manager prior to entering the ice, however, our season fee remains the same due to standard ice time cost.

WHAT IS THE MINIMUM AGE TO BECOME AN ATHLETE and/or VOLUNTEER?

We accept athletes on the ice beginning 6 years of age.

We accept volunteers, with experience, as determined by our on-ice coordinator and Gliding Stars of Central Florida Directors.

HOW SAFE IS ICE SKATING?

Ice skating is a physical activity that does involve some risk of injury. The activity develops motor skills, balance, strength, and coordination through the ice skating program, and in the process of that learning participants should expect to experience some challenges. For example, participants of all skill levels will fall - look at any Olympic ice skating event to understand that even the most experienced athlete falls. We require all volunteers to complete a Gliding Stars of Central Florida certification program prior to assisting our athletes. We require our athletes to wear protective helmets, which we provide, and make available support equipment, as appropriate (e.g. walkers, harnesses). Each athlete is paired with a volunteer who assists the athlete at every ice skating session. Volunteers go through training and evaluation prior to participating on the ice. In addition, the ice rink where we provide instruction - Orlando Ice Den - has its own rules and guidelines. Please be sure to review Orlando Ice Den, prior to stepping on the ice. Gliding Stars of Central Florida, Inc abides by all of the rinks facility rules.

HOW MUCH OF MY DONATION DIRECTLY SUPPORTS THE CAUSE?

Gliding Stars of Central Florida, Inc. is primarily supported by donations from the public, fundraising events, grants, and, to a limited extent, participation fees. Over the previous 20+ years through our prior affiliation as a chapter with a National organization (Gliding Stars, Inc.), the program has been run entirely by volunteers. That is still the case now after the former chapter has become an independent not-for-profit organization operating as a 501(c)(3) charity. Presently, 100% of all donations are used to pay for the program's activities and expenses (e.g. ice time rental, equipment purchases, insurance, etc.). We strive to provide a safe and focused environment for all. Finding innovative opportunities to share the world of ice skating to all individuals with disabilities continues to be our passion.