SkateSafe® Requirements for Event, Program and Activity Organizers
In an era where safety in sports is paramount, U.S. Figure Skating outlines clear protocols for event organizers under the SkateSafe® Program. The goal? To ensure a safe, positive, and inclusive environment for everyone involved in figure skating.
U.S. Figure Skating, as the national governing body, is dedicated to fostering safety through stringent compliance, verification, and reporting protocols. Event organizers must meticulously adhere to these guidelines to create secure environments during all sanctioned activities. Notably, random audits may be conducted to ensure compliance, and organizers failing to meet standards might face restrictions on hosting future events.
Key Compliance Requirements
Organizers are tasked with confirming that individuals in compliance roles, including coaches and officials, fulfill SkateSafe® stipulations. These requirements comprise:
Completion of *SafeSport™ Training
U.S. Figure Skating approved background checks
Role-specific trainings such as the Coach I.C.E.
Necessary waivers and acknowledgments
If any team member falls short of these requirements, they cannot serve in a compliance-required capacity. This scrutiny extends to day-of or last-minute personnel, including volunteers, emphasizing the need for stringent oversight.
Banned Individuals Protocol
Cosigning events calls for careful verification of personnel eligibility. Organizers must cross-reference individuals against U.S. Figure Skating’s banned and suspended lists. Such diligence prevents ineligible individuals from participating in any aspect of an event, effectively maintaining the integrity of the sport.
Effective Communication
Before each event, it is critical for organizers to distribute the SkateSafe® Handbook to all registered participants. Ensuring adult participants understand their mandatory reporting responsibilities is equally important. Strategies like providing immediate access to the handbook via QR codes for day-of registrants foster understanding and adherence to safety policies.
By rigorously following these SkateSafe® guidelines, U.S. Figure Skating bolsters its commitment to create safe, respectful, and inclusive environments for athletes, coaches, officials, and families alike.
