WINTER registration
is NOW open!!
Learn to Skate & Hockey/Ringette Frequently Asked Questions
Registration FAQ:
I've never registered with ASC before. How do I create an account?
Click on "Login" in the top right corner of the webpage. The right hand side of the page will say "First Time Registering with ASC?”. Fill in the form and follow the instructions for registration.
I registered with ASC years ago, before there was online registration available. How do I register now?
You will need to create a new account. If you have not completed online registration previously, you will be treated as a new member.
Why do I need to complete my registration within a limited time period?
Registration spots for all of our programs are limited. To ensure that your spot is saved during the registration process and that all users have an equal opportunity to register for programs, you must confirm your registration with payment by either credit card or cheque.
I have registered, but I also noticed additional fees added to my invoice. What are these fees?
There is an annual Skate Canada Membership fee, which is valid from Sept. 1, to Aug. 31. Additionally, there is an annual club administration fee. These fees are paid only once during the year.
I am having troubles registering. Who can I contact for help?
You may call/visit the office during regular hours and someone will be happy to assist. Alternatively please call 905-683-1753 or email office@ajaxskatingclub.ca and someone will respond within 72 hours.
Suitability of the Program:
How old should my child be before she/he or she starts skating?
Generally, most children are ready to learn to skate between the ages of 3 and 5. The decision to start them in a program depends on their attention span and their level of interest in skating. It's important to make sure that the skates fit them properly and that their ankles are well-supported.
Does my child have to have previous skating experience before signing up for the program?
No. This program is suitable for new skaters as well as those with some experience.
What is the coach to Student Ratio?
Group sizes range from 5-10 skaters and are taught by a professional coach with one or more assistants.
Skate Canada Fee:
I paid a Skate Canada membership fee when my child joined the program. Will I have to pay it again?
The Skate Canada fee is an annual fee and is only valid from Sept. 1 to Aug. 31 of the following year, regardless of when you join the program. The fee is required by Skate Canada and is not retained by the club. This fee is non-refundable.
Withdrawing from the program or transferring to another class:
How do I withdraw from a course?
Refunds are based on the date of receipt of a written notice, either provided in person or on the phone during regular office hours or emailed to office@ajaxskatingclub.ca. Provide the child’s name, skating day, parent’s name, address, and reason for withdrawal. Please note that refunds are only offered for medical reasons with a doctor's note, or because the family is moving far away from Ajax.
How do I transfer to another CanSkate class?
There is no automated system to do that at this time. Please email office@ajaxskatingclub.ca to request a class day change, or come visit us in our office during regular office hours.
Can I move my child to a different class day for a couple of weeks due to a temporary conflict and then return to the original class day?
No. If there is space available, you can move your skater on a permanent basis, but you cannot move back and forth between class days.
If we want to withdraw after the withdrawal deadline, can we get a credit for future lessons?
There are no credit provided after the deadline, except in the case of medical withdrawals. For further details, refer to our “Refund Policy”.
Wait List:
If there are no spaces left in a class, do I have to pay to have my child’s name put on a waitlist?
No, skaters can be placed on the waitlist and no payment is required unless a space becomes available.
How do I put my child’s name on the waitlist?
If a class if full, instead of a "Register" button beside the session, there will be a "Waitlist" button. When you click that button, the site will allow you to add a child from your profile to the waitlist. Once a position has become available, you will be notified by email that a position is available. You can then log into the website and either register your child or remove them from the waitlist to allow the next person on the list to take their spot. Once the position is offered, there will be a limited time to complete the registration.
Can I find out where my child’s name is on the waitlist?
If you log into the website and click on "My Account" on the top right hand corner, you can then select "My Waitlist" from the submenu on the left hand side. This list will display each of the programs and children who are on the waitlist for each individual program along with their position on the list.
Will the waitlist be carried forward to the next season?
No. Your skater’s name will be kept on the waiting list, without charge, until the registration deadline passes. The lists will then be deleted. Names from the waitlist will not be carried forward to a future season.
Parent Roles:
Can I drop my child off for classes and leave the arena?
No. A parent or other responsible adult must be available in Rink 2. Often children need to be excused from the ice to use the washroom. None of our coaches or volunteer board members will escort a child to the bathroom. Parents must be able to see the ice to see if they're needed at ice-level.
Can I stand on the ice with my child if he/she is uncomfortable?
No. For insurance purposes, only Skate Canada members are allowed on the ice.
Missed Classes:
My skater has to miss one of her classes. Can she attend another class to make up for the missed class?
Members are assigned to specific groups on the day for which they registered and cannot attend a class on another day unless they make a permanent move to that class (only possible if there are spaces available).
If we have an extended vacation planned, can I register my child for only part of the lessons or get a refund for the lessons missed?
Participants who go away on extended vacations cannot make up the missed classes on another class day or receive a refund for missed classes. Parents who opt to register for only the latter part of a session must wait until that date to register receive a prorated fee. We cannot hold space for skaters joining later in the season.
Equipment Requirements:
Do I have to buy the skates and helmet or are they available for rent?
All participants must provide their own equipment – CSA approved hockey helmet (for all skaters until completion of CanSkate Stage 5), skates (figure, hockey, or recreational), gloves. *see note about skates below - our coaches do not recommend plastic skates.
Does my skater need a helmet if they can already skate?
Yes. For insurance purposes and safety considerations, all skaters must wear a helmet until the completion of CanSkate stage 5.
If I forget a helmet, are there helmets available that my skater can borrow?
No. All helmets must fit properly to provide adequate protection and ASC cannot provide helmets.
Are the molded skates a good option?
No. Because they cannot be “broken in” and are inflexible, they allow the skater less control. Your skater will progress at a slower rate.
How do I buy skates for my child?
There's no such thing as weak ankles, however, there are many skates being sold with weak ankle support! Pay attention to the thickness of the leather in the ankle area. Look for thick leather in this area. They will mold to the feet over time. Your child should be able to wiggle their toes and the heel should fit snuggly. A properly fitted skate is usually one size smaller than your normal shoe size. Avoid wearing thick socks. A thin acrylic blend of sock or stocking allows the skate to have a snug fit that allows the toes to be relaxed in the toe box. Please DO NO buy plastic or adjustable skates for your skater.
Where can I find information on skate and helmet selection?
Check out our printable brochure for all the details Equipment Guideline Brochure!!
Figure Skating - PreStarSkate & STARSkate
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration FAQ
Suitability of the Program
The STARSkate Program/Placement
Skate Canada Fee
Withdrawing from the program or transferring to another class
Waitlist
Coaches and lessons
Guest Skating
Parent Roles
Equipment Requirements
Registration FAQ:
I've never registered with ASC before. How do I create an account?
Click on "Login" in the top right corner of the webpage. The right hand side of the page will say "First Time Registering with ASC?”. Fill in the form and follow the instructions for registration.
I registered with ASC years ago, before there was online registration available. How do I register now?
You will need to create a new account. If you have not completed online registration previously, you will be treated as a new member.
Why do I need to complete my registration within a limited time period?
Registration spots for all of our programs are limited. To ensure that your spot is saved during the registration process and that all users have an equal opportunity to register for programs, you must confirm your registration with payment by either credit card or cheque.
I have registered, but I also noticed additional fees added to my invoice. What are these fees?
There is an annual Skate Canada Membership fee, which is valid from Sept. 1, to Aug. 31. Additionally, there is an annual club administration fee. These fees are paid only once during the year.
I am having troubles registering. Who can I contact for help?
You may call/visit the office during regular hours and someone will be happy to assist. Alternatively please call 905-683-1753 or email office@ajaxskatingclub.ca and someone will respond within 72 hours.
Suitability of the Program:
How old should my child be before she/he or she starts skating?
Generally, most children are ready to learn to skate between the ages of 3 and 5. The decision to start them in a program depends on their attention span and their level of interest in skating. It's important to make sure that the skates fit them properly and that their ankles are well-supported.
Does my child have to have previous skating experience before signing up for the program?
No. This program is suitable for new skaters as well as those with some experience.
What is the coach to Student Ratio?
Group sizes range from 5-10 skaters and are taught by a professional coach with one or more assistants.
Skate Canada Fee:
I paid a Skate Canada membership fee when my child joined the program. Will I have to pay it again?
The Skate Canada fee is an annual fee and is only valid from Sept. 1 to Aug. 31 of the following year, regardless of when you join the program. The fee is required by Skate Canada and is not retained by the club. This fee is non-refundable.
Withdrawing from the program or transferring to another class:
How do I withdraw from a course?
Refunds are based on the date of receipt of a written notice, either provided in person or on the phone during regular office hours or emailed to office@ajaxskatingclub.ca. Provide the child’s name, skating day, parent’s name, address, and reason for withdrawal. Please note that refunds are only offered for medical reasons with a doctor's note, or because the family is moving far away from Ajax.
How do I transfer to another CanSkate class?
There is no automated system to do that at this time. Please email office@ajaxskatingclub.ca to request a class day change, or come visit us in our office during regular office hours.
Can I move my child to a different class day for a couple of weeks due to a temporary conflict and then return to the original class day?
No. If there is space available, you can move your skater on a permanent basis, but you cannot move back and forth between class days.
If we want to withdraw after the withdrawal deadline, can we get a credit for future lessons?
There are no credit provided after the deadline, except in the case of medical withdrawals. For further details, refer to our “Refund Policy”.
Wait List:
If there are no spaces left in a class, do I have to pay to have my child’s name put on a waitlist?
No, skaters can be placed on the waitlist and no payment is required unless a space becomes available.
How do I put my child’s name on the waitlist?
If a class if full, instead of a "Register" button beside the session, there will be a "Waitlist" button. When you click that button, the site will allow you to add a child from your profile to the waitlist. Once a position has become available, you will be notified by email that a position is available. You can then log into the website and either register your child or remove them from the waitlist to allow the next person on the list to take their spot. Once the position is offered, there will be a limited time to complete the registration.
Can I find out where my child’s name is on the waitlist?
If you log into the website and click on "My Account" on the top right hand corner, you can then select "My Waitlist" from the submenu on the left hand side. This list will display each of the programs and children who are on the waitlist for each individual program along with their position on the list.
Will the waitlist be carried forward to the next season?
No. Your skater’s name will be kept on the waiting list, without charge, until the registration deadline passes. The lists will then be deleted. Names from the waitlist will not be carried forward to a future season.
Parent Roles:
Can I drop my child off for classes and leave the arena?
No. A parent or other responsible adult must be available in Rink 2. Often children need to be excused from the ice to use the washroom. None of our coaches or volunteer board members will escort a child to the bathroom. Parents must be able to see the ice to see if they're needed at ice-level.
Can I stand on the ice with my child if he/she is uncomfortable?
No. For insurance purposes, only Skate Canada members are allowed on the ice.
Missed Classes:
My skater has to miss one of her classes. Can she attend another class to make up for the missed class?
Members are assigned to specific groups on the day for which they registered and cannot attend a class on another day unless they make a permanent move to that class (only possible if there are spaces available).
If we have an extended vacation planned, can I register my child for only part of the lessons or get a refund for the lessons missed?
Participants who go away on extended vacations cannot make up the missed classes on another class day or receive a refund for missed classes. Parents who opt to register for only the latter part of a session must wait until that date to register receive a prorated fee. We cannot hold space for skaters joining later in the season.
Equipment Requirements:
Do I have to buy the skates and helmet or are they available for rent?
All participants must provide their own equipment – CSA approved hockey helmet (for all skaters until completion of CanSkate Stage 5), skates (figure, hockey, or recreational), gloves. *see note about skates below - our coaches do not recommend plastic skates.
Does my skater need a helmet if they can already skate?
Yes. For insurance purposes and safety considerations, all skaters must wear a helmet until the completion of CanSkate stage 5.
If I forget a helmet, are there helmets available that my skater can borrow?
No. All helmets must fit properly to provide adequate protection and ASC cannot provide helmets.
Are the molded skates a good option?
No. Because they cannot be “broken in” and are inflexible, they allow the skater less control. Your skater will progress at a slower rate.
How do I buy skates for my child?
There's no such thing as weak ankles, however, there are many skates being sold with weak ankle support! Pay attention to the thickness of the leather in the ankle area. Look for thick leather in this area. They will mold to the feet over time. Your child should be able to wiggle their toes and the heel should fit snuggly. A properly fitted skate is usually one size smaller than your normal shoe size. Avoid wearing thick socks. A thin acrylic blend of sock or stocking allows the skate to have a snug fit that allows the toes to be relaxed in the toe box. Please DO NO buy plastic or adjustable skates for your skater.
Where can I find information on skate and helmet selection?
Check out our printable brochure for all the details Equipment Guideline Brochure!!
Registration FAQ:
I've never registered with ASC before. How do I create an account?
Click on "Login" in the top right corner of the webpage. The right hand side of the page will say "First Time Registering with ASC?”. Fill in the form and follow the instructions for registration.
I registered with ASC years ago, before there was online registration available. How do I register now?
You will need to create a new account. If you have never completed online registration previously, you will be treated as a new member.
Why do I need to complete my registration within a limited time period?
Registration spots for all of our programs are limited. To ensure that your spot is saved during the registration process and that all users have an equal opportunity to register for programs, you must confirm your registration with payment by either credit card or cheque.
I have registered, but I also noticed additional fees added to my invoice. What are these fees?
There is an annual $37 Skate Canada Membership fee, which is valid from Sept. 1 to Aug. 31. Additionally, there is an annual club administration fee and Skater Development fee paid only once during the season.
I am having troubles registering. Who can I contact for help?
Thank you again for your patience as we transition to this new system. Any inquiries regarding registration can be sent via email to office@ajaxskatingclub.ca and one of our board members will respond within 72 hours.
Suitability of the Program:
My child is interested in hockey or ringette. Is this program geared only to figure skaters?
Yes, STARSkate is a program exclusively for figure skating. Further information about the Hockey/Ringette program can be found by going to Hockey/Ringette Program page.
Does my child have to have previous skating experience before signing up for the program?
Yes. Skaters must have passed Leve 6 of CanSkate.
My children have very different levels of skating experience. Can they all register for the same session?
In order to maintain a balance of skaters throughout our sessions, our STARskate sessions are divided according to the skill level of the skaters. To skate on the same session, all skaters must be at the same level. For more information on the requirements for each session, please see the Register for STARSkate page.
What is the coach to Student Ratio?
STARSkaters work one-on-one with thier priviate coach (who is hired directly by the parents), or in small group lessons.
The STARSkate program/placement:
My child has previous experience in another program. How will he/she be placed in the STARSkate program?
Our STARSkaters are grouped according to their skill level. As skaters pass various tests they move through the STAR 1-10 grouping system.
Skate Canada Fee:
I paid a Skate Canada membership fee when my child joined the program. Will I have to pay it again?
The Skate Canada fee is an annual membership and is only valid from Sept. 1 to Aug. 31 of the following year, regardless of when you join the program. The fee is required by Skate Canada and is not retained by the club. This fee is non-refundable.
Withdrawing from the program or transferring to another class:
How do I transfer to another class?
There is no automated system to do that at this time. Please email office@ajaxskatingclub.ca to request a class day change.
Can I move my child to a different class day for a couple of weeks due to a temporary conflict and then return to the original class day?
No. If there is space available, you can move your skater on a permanent basis, but you cannot move back and forth between class days.
Wait List
If there are no spaces left in a class, do I have to pay to have my child’s name put on a waitlist?
No.
How do I put my child’s name on the waitlist?
If a class if full, instead of a "Register" button beside the session, there will be a "Waitlist" button. When you should click that button, the site will allow you to add a child from your profile to the waitlist. Once a position has become available, you will be notified by email that a position is available. You can then log into the website and either register your child or remove them from the waitlist to allow the next person on the list to take their spot. Once the position is offered, there will be a limited time to complete the registration.
Can I find out where my child’s name is on the waitlist?
If you log into the website and click on "My Account" on the top right hand corner, you can then select "My Waitlist" from the submenu on the left hand side. This list will display each of the programs and children who are on the waitlist for each individual program along with their position on the list.
Will the waitlist be carried forward to the next session?
No. Your skater’s name will be kept on the waiting list, without charge, until partway through the session. The lists will then be deleted. Names from the waitlist will not be carried forward to a future session.
Coaches and Lessons:
How do I know how many private lessons my child needs?
You should have a discussion with your child’s coach on a regular basis to determine both parent and coach’s expectations, including the numbers of sessions per week and the number of lessons.
What do I do if either my child or I want to change coaches?
Our coaches are all professionals and respect ASC’s Coaches’ Code of Conduct, and they will behave in a professional manner whether your child remains with them or changes to another coach.
The first coach hired by the skater’s parents for private lessons is known as the base or primary coach. In accordance with Skate Canada guidelines, any other coach wishing to teach the skater in any discipline must first get approval from the Primary Coach. Please be aware it is against Skate Canada guidelines for any coach to “solicit” a skater away from another coach.
If after meeting and discussion with their Primary Coach, a skater and parent determine that it is in the skater’s best interest and there are valid and beneficial reasons to make a coaching change, then etiquette dictates that the skater’s parents ask their selected new coach if they would be willing and have time to teach the skater, if so, then the parents inform the former coach of the change and pay them in full before taking any lessons from the new coach. Skate Canada and ASC require that the former primary coach gracefully relinquish any skater that wishes to change coaches.
I’m not happy with my child’s coach. Who can I talk to about this?
It’s very important to keep good lines of communication between parent, skater and coach. First and foremost, you should take any concerns to your coach. Each of our coaches are professionals who adhere to our ASC Coaches’ Code of Conduct, and they will behave in a professional manner in addressing your specific concerns.
Guest Skating
How can I tell if a session is available for guest skating?
Guest skating will only be permitted on sessions where registration has not reached capacity. To check whether there is availability, please log in and click on the REGISTRATION tab. It will show the number of spots remaining, if any. When a session is at capacity, you cannot guest skate, no matter how many of those registered skaters are actually in attendance on a given day.
If a session is showing as full, can someone guest skate if there are skaters absent?
No. The number of guest skaters will be limited to the number of spaces available for registration, irrespective of skater absences.
Where do I purchase guest skating tickets?
Guest skating tickets must be purchased in advance by contacting the club at office@ajaxskatingclub.ca , by checking with your coach, or stopping by the office during Office Hours. Guest skating tickets are available 1 for $20 or 5 for $80.
Parent Roles:
Do I need to stay at the rink while my child skates?
Yes, if your skater is under 12 years old. Skaters are supervised by their coaches while they are on the ice. After their session ends, they should be picked up promptly.
Can I stand on the ice with my child?
No. For insurance purposes, only Skate Canada members are allowed on the ice.
Missed Classes:
My skater has to miss one of her sessions. Can she attend another class to make up for the missed class?
Members registered for a specific session/day and cannot attend a class on another day unless they make a permanent move to that class (only possible if there are spaces available).
If we have an extended vacation planned, can I register my child for only part of the lessons or get a refund for the lessons missed?
Participants who go away on extended vacations cannot make up the missed classes on another class day or receive a refund for missed classes. Parents who opt to register for only the latter part of a session must wait until that date to register and cannot request that a space be held for their child.
Do we get a credit for sessions cancelled due to weather?
ASC is not able to offer makeup classes or refunds due to classes cancelled because of severe weather or other circumstances beyond ASC’S control
Equipment Requirements:
What kind of skates should STARSkaters use?
At this level, STARSkaters will be doing jumps, spins and turns, and as such, they require properly fitted figure skates. Your coach can provide recommendations.
Are the molded skates a good option?
No. Because they cannot be “broken in” and are inflexible, they allow the skater less control. Your skater will progress at a slower rate
