frequently asked questions
You've found our club, maybe even perused our website, and you still have some questions. You're in the majority and we're happy to help!
Who are we?
Ozark Figure Skating Club (Ozark FSC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We are a member club of U.S. Figure Skating and a program partner to The Jones Center.
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what do we do?
We hold an annual competition (Pigtail Classic), an annual Christmas production, bring seminars and guest coaches to our rink, and host several fun member activities throughout the year to name a few!
Why do we exist?
To put it simply, our focus is to bring skating and fellowship opportunities to our skaters, and to provide support as they achieve their goals.
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Our Club: OFSC
Who is Ozark Figure Skating Club (OFSC)?
So WHO are we? Ozark FSC (DBA Ozark Figure Skating Club) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and a full member club of U.S. Figure Skating (the national governing body for figure skating in the United States) and program partner to The Jones Center. Our organization is subject to all policies, rules, restrictions, and guidelines of the before stated. We've existed since 1997 and have been growing the figure skating community in NWA ever since! We're a fully volunteer run organization and love to see our skate families get involved.
What is the purpose of a U.S. Figure Skating member club?
For the club it means having the ability to host local competitions and performances under the guidance, support, and regulations of the larger organization. For a member it means access to local skating opportunities, local competitions, a community of skaters, lots of events and activities put on by the club, the ability to vote for local leadership, and a discount on your U.S. Figure Skating membership.
What activities or events does OFSC provide?
If you're looking for all we've planned for the 24/25 membership year you can find that on the home page. Generally speaking our year looks a bit like this: + Host 1 Competition + At least 2 seminars + 1 Annual Christmas Show + Several Virtual Test Sessions + 4 larger activities that are paired with a member meeting + At least 2 smaller activities - usually holiday-centered + Annual end of year Banquet + 2 Service Projects
Do you have to be a member to participate in OFSC activities or events?
It depends on the event or activity. Some activities and events are exclusive to members like Cookies & Cocoa and Glow Skate, while others like seminars, Christmas show, and Pigtail Classic are open to non-members. Activities and events that are open to non-members are typically posted on our public Facebook page or bulletin board.
What are the benefits to becoming a member of OFSC?
Membership benefits include a discount on your USFS membership, access to local performances and skating opportunities that are largely made possible by the fundraising done by OFSC, inclusion in club-only activities, and support form our local skating community!
What does it cost to become a member?
Membership costs vary from $30-$150 annually. Click the link to view the breakdown!
How do I find a coach?
You can go to our "Contact Us" page and make a request or use the link to get started.
What are the available practice/lesson times?
OFSC typically utilizes Public Freestyle for lessons. Use the link to view the current Freestyle schedule.
Group Lessons
Does OFSC offer group lessons?
OFSC hosts seminars with group lessons, but generally speaking, The Jones Center is who programs all the group lessons available at the rink.
Do I have to be a member of The Jones Center to take skating lessons?
No membership required but being a member at The Jones Center does afford you discounts on programming and public skate sessions though!
Why should I sign up for group lessons?
Group lessons (Learn to Skate, Aspire, Elite classes) are the best place to start if you're just getting into skating. You'll get to learn alongside others at your same skill level for a lower price per 30-minute session. Private lessons can run $20-$40 per 30-minute session. For those taking private lessons, group classes are an excellent way to get more time and practice on the ice at a very reasonable price point.
Can I do group lessons and private lessons at the same time?
ABSOLUTELY! And it's highly encouraged. If you're unsure about which classes to sign up for please don't hesitate to either ask your coach or reach out to us.
How much do group lessons cost?
Group rates vary but $50-$100 per 6-Week Session can be expected. Cost depends on the level of class, if you have a Jones Center membership, or an early registration discount.
private Lessons
What are the benefits of private lessons?
Private lessons offer: + one-on-one instruction + individualized instruction + immediate feedback and correction + schedule flexibility + ... the list goes on!
How do I find a coach?
You can see which coaches are available for you to hire by visiting the link!
Do I pay OFSC for private lessons or the coach?
All coaches are independent contractors. You'll pay your coach directly. For some this payment is in advance, and for others it's at the end of a month of lessons. Talk with your coach and make sure you understand how they manage payment for lessons.
Can I do private lessons and group lessons at the same time?
ABSOLUTELY! And it's highly encouraged. If you're unsure about which classes to sign up for please don't hesitate to either ask your coach or reach out to us.
Do I have to be a member of OFSC to do private lessons?
Nope! All available coaches are independent contractors and while they are required to be members of both U.S. Figure Skating and Ozark Figure Skating Club, you don't have to be to get access to well qualified coaches! Would we love it if you officially joined our skating community? 100%. We also understand its not the right fit for everyone. Take a peak over all the FAQs and our website to get a better sense if joining is the right move for you!
Testing
What is "Testing"?
Testing is way that skaters can be recognized for their skills and progression in figure skating that does not require competing to achieve. Use the link to learn more about Testing!
Do I have to be a member of OFSC to Test?
No you do not have to be a member of Ozark Figure Skating Club but you must be a member of U.S. Figure Skating.
Can I only Test when OFSC hosts a test session?
You can test with any club so long as the club in question has a test open to non-members of their club, you are a member in good standing with your home club or as an independent member, and you can complete the requirements to test with the club in question.
How many Test Sessions does OFSC offer per year?
Our goal is to offer at least 6 virtual test sessions per year, though we will offer as we can beyond this number if the interest is there.
What's the difference between a Virtual Test and an In-Person Test?
With an In-Person Test you perform the test in front of a panel of judges and the cost is usually higher. With a Virtual Test your coach will film you performing the test and submit it to judges for review and is less expensive. There are additional details that vary so if you are interested in testing please talk to your coach to find out which is better for you.
What does it cost to register for a Test Session?
Skating Skills and Freeskate tests = $50 All Dance tests = $40 One-Time Non-Member Fee = $25 *if you register for multiple tests within one test session you will only be charged $25 one time and not per event.
Competing
What are the requirements in order to compete in figure skating?
In order to participate in a competition you must be a member of U.S. Figure Skating. A membership with Ozark Figure Skating Club includes a membership to USFS. Use the link for all competition rules and resources.
Do I have to be a member of OFSC in order to compete?
You do not have to be a member of OFSC but you must either be a member of a club or be an Individual member in order to compete. Use the link to learn more about becoming a member of OFSC!
How do I register for a competition?
Registering for a competition varies from one to the next but we keep track of competitions our skaters frequent and you can find all the important information to each competition by using the link below.
This is my first competition - what would be good to know ahead of time? What should I expect at the competition?
There's a lot one could know before going to your first competition but two things that are top of mind for us are additional costs and having fun. If you are traveling you will be paying a portion of your coach's travel, food, gas, etc. There are also event fees that coaches charge ($10-20 per event). Make sure you talk to your coach ahead of time about these unrealized costs. Now onto the having fun part - OFSC members are wonderful at supporting their friends and we encourage you to participate in supporting other skaters. Watch events your skater isn't in and allow them to experience cheering on their peers with others. There's also this lovely tradition that became the norm in 2024 where skaters/supporter/family throw stuffies onto the ice in support of a skater. Don't break the bank buying stuffies but plan to at least throw one for your skater and maybe even a few for your skater to throw as well!
How much does it cost to compete?
The cost to compete varies WIDELY among competitions and skater skill level but here are costs to consider when budgeting: + Skating Dress or Dresses + Additional lessons + Music Cutting + Blade Sharpening + Extra laces & Tights + Traveling expenses both personal and for your coach + Event Fees to Coaches (practice ice and per event) + Competition Merchandise ... and more. OFSC will host an informational meeting at the beginning of competition season to answer any questions you have but you can always use the contact us page!
Policies, procedures, & bylaws
What is the difference between policies, procedures, and bylaws?
Bylaws are OFSC's governing document that dictates the high level of how our organization operates and the limitations we are subject to. Policies and Procedures are the rules and processes the Board of Directors create that must adhere to the bylaws but are more specific to various circumstances that may arise. For example: the requirement that OFSC have directors is stated in the bylaws but the specific responsibilities are all listed in policies and procedures whereas the roles and responsibilities of officers are dictated by the bylaws and expanded upon in the policies and procedures.
Can policies, procedures, and bylaws be changed, and if so, how?
They can both be changed but changing the bylaws requires a 2/3 majority vote by voting members whereas changing the policies and procedures only requires a simple majority vote of voting members of the Board of Directors.
Where can I find these club documents?
You can find these documents and other resources by visiting the About OFSC page or using the link below.
Who manages the operations of OFSC?
OFSC's day-to-day operations and event planning are managed by the Board of Directors. Use the link below if you are interested in joining as a Committee Chair, Committee member, or Director!
Can anyone join the Board of Directors?
Any adult member of OFSC is eligible to join the Board of Directors. All skating members ages 12-17 are eligible to join the Jr. Board.
Are Board meetings open to members?
Yes, all meetings are open to members and we highly encourage you to attend. As of November 2024 we've started to offer a virtual option for those who are unable to attend in person. If you want notifications and reminders about upcoming Board meetings as well as other events and activities please make sure we have an email address that you check often. We frequently use Remind to send text reminders and our private Facebook page to post updates and reminders about club only matters.
How does voting for members of the Board work?
This information can be found in the Bylaws - Article III, Section 5 & 12 - Article IV, Section 4 & 8 - Article V, Section 7