How Coach Karina Prepares Her Skaters for a Compete USA Competition: A Parent’s Guide

As a coach, my goal for every Compete USA competition is simple: help each skater feel prepared, confident, and proud of their effort. These events are designed to be positive learning experiences, especially for young skaters and families who may be attending their first competition.

Below is how I guide my students—and how I partner with parents—to make competition day a success both on and off the ice.

My Coaching Philosophy for Compete USA

Compete USA competitions are not about pressure or perfection. They are about:

• Learning how competitions work

• Gaining confidence performing in front of judges and an audience

• Developing strong fundamentals and performance habits

I remind my skaters (and parents) that progress matters more than placement. Every competition is a stepping stone.

On-Ice Preparation: Building Confidence Through Routine

Consistent, Focused Practice

In the weeks leading up to competition, I help skaters focus on:

• Correct execution of required elements

• Strong basic skating skills and posture

• Skating the program start to finish with confidence

We practice consistency, not just difficulty. Clean, confident skating always scores better than rushed or forced elements.

Simulating Competition Conditions

To help reduce nerves, I prepare skaters by:

• Practicing full programs without stopping

• Using music starts and official-style run-throughs

• Practicing skating in front of others

This helps competition day feel familiar rather than overwhelming.

Equipment Readiness: Setting Skaters Up for Success

Skates and Blades

I always advise parents to:

• Ensure skates fit properly and are well broken-in

• Sharpen blades about 1–2 weeks before competition

• Avoid making last-minute equipment changes

Comfort and confidence in equipment make a huge difference in performance.

Costume and Practice Wear

Before competition, I ask skaters to:

• Practice at least once in their competition outfit

• Check that costumes allow full movement

• Secure hair pieces, clips, and accessories

Parents are encouraged to bring backup tights or a practice dress, just in case.

Mental Preparation: Confidence Comes First

Setting Healthy Expectations

I talk with my skaters about realistic goals, such as:

• Remembering their program

• Skating with strong posture and effort

• Continuing even if a mistake happens

Mistakes are part of skating—and learning how to recover is a skill we practice.

How Parents Can Help

I encourage parents to use positive, supportive language. Simple phrases like:

• “I love watching you skate.”

• “Have fun and do your best.”

These words help skaters feel supported, not pressured.

Competition Day: What I Ask of My Skaters and Parents

Arrival and Warm-Up

I recommend arriving 60–90 minutes early to allow time for:

• Check-in and changing

• Calm warm-up and stretching

• Mental focus before skating

A relaxed start sets the tone for the entire event.

Warm-Up Etiquette

During warm-ups, I coach skaters to:

• Stay aware of others on the ice

• Focus on simple, confident skating

• Listen carefully for instructions

Warm-ups are about preparation, not perfection.

Parent Role Rinkside

One of the biggest ways parents can help is by:

• Staying calm and positive

• Letting me handle technical feedback

• Offering encouragement, not instructions

A supportive presence helps skaters feel safe and confident.

After the Skate: Learning and Celebrating

After each performance, I focus on:

• Acknowledging effort and courage

• Highlighting what went well

• Using judges’ feedback to guide future training

Awards and ribbons are fun, but the real success is growth and confidence.

Creating a Positive Long-Term Skating Experience

Compete USA competitions are an important part of a skater’s development. With the right preparation and support, they help skaters:

• Build resilience

• Develop performance skills

• Learn sportsmanship

As a coach, I value working closely with parents. When we create a calm, encouraging environment together, skaters thrive.

A Note from Coach Karina to Parents: Your support matters more than any score. When skaters feel encouraged and prepared, they grow—not just as athletes, but as confident young people.