Letter from U.S. Figure Skating President Anne Cammett
April 30, 2020
Dear U.S. Figure Skating members,
As parts of the nation slowly begin to take steps to reopen businesses, many of us are eagerly anticipating that moment when we can return to the rink. While the thought of gliding across the ice and reconnecting with our figure skating family in person is appealing, together we will face a new reality when we cross that threshold into our home away from home.
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live, work and connect with each other in the immediate future. While the health and safety of our members remain paramount, the current environment requires that we take the necessary steps to ensure that we are also protecting our families and communities.
With close consideration of national guidelines, U.S. Figure Skating has been working with other leaders in the ice sports industry (notably U.S. Ice Rink Association and USA Hockey) and our own constituent groups to create a comprehensive plan that will help us return to the rinks in a safe and responsible manner.
Recognizing that each ice rink and associated business is unique and must adhere to its own state or local COVID-19 procedures and restrictions, U.S. Figure Skating’s guidelines will be released and posted on USFigureSkating.org in three phases:
• Protocols for Return to On-Ice Activities – No later than May 4
• Standards for Disciplines and Programs – Week of May 11
• Course of Action for Competitions and Events – Week of May 18
As you can imagine, there is no “one size fits all” guide in this situation. We anticipate there will be updates to these guidelines as more restrictions are lifted or if stay-at-home orders are restored. These updates will be conveyed on USFigureSkating.org.
In closing, I want to thank our many members who continue to inspire us, be it through a workout video, a TikTok dance or a humorous skating meme. Your resilience and Get Up attitude reinforce the many reasons why this organization has endured a century of challenges. COVID-19 will leave its mark, but I am confident we will always rise together.
Sincerely,
Anne Cammett
President
