TM
For exclusive use by the Ice Skating Institute Members.
Copyright 2009. All Right Reserved.
Section B:
Judging Essentials
Section B: Judging Essentials
ISI Judge Certification Tests
Get Informed … and Update Now!
T
he new 2010 Rule Revisions along with a revised duration chart are printed on pages 33 and 34. Since there
have been some significant changes in our test and
competition events over the past two years, it’s time for newly
updated books – and time for the 2010 Update Test too!
All coaches who have passed any level of ISI Judge Certification exams prior to January 1, 2010 must pass the 2010 Update Test to keep their certification current. All judges for all
ISI competition events must have passed the 2010 Update
Test beginning January 1, 2010.
The 2010 editions of the Skaters and Coaches Handbook and
Judge Manual are now available.
All Update Tests received before December 31, 2009 are FREE
OF CHARGE. Starting January 1, 2010, there is a $15 Update Test fee. The test can be taken online or printed off the
website and sent by fax or mail to the ISI office.
All ISI professional members must pass a Judge Certification
test before serving as a judge at any ISI competition event.
All tests are open book with true/false and multiple choice
questions. This exam style is used to test the candidate’s
knowledge of the maneuver requirements, competition
events, event levels, common penalties and understanding of
where to find the correct information in the current ISI publications.
The Judge Certification program is divided into five tests:
Bronze Test – includes questions from Tots – Delta, Freestyle
1-3, Open Bronze Freestyle, Couple 1-3, Dance 1-3, Pair 1-3,
Stroking, Artistic, Footwork, Spotlight, Rhythmic, Jump &
Spin and team events (not including synchronized skating
teams).
Silver Test – includes questions from Tots – Delta, Freestyle
1-5, Open Bronze & Silver Freestyle, Couple 1-5, Dance 1-5,
Pair 1-5, Stroking, Artistic, Footwork, Spotlight, Rhythmic,
Jump & Spin and team events (not including synchronized
skating teams).
Gold Test – includes questions from all levels and all events
(not including synchronized skating teams).
Synchronized Test – includes questions from all levels of
competition for Synchronized Formation, Skating Dance and
Synchronized team compulsory events.
2010 Update Test – includes new rule changes and revisions
since 2008 along with other commonly misunderstood test
and competition rules.
26
The Bronze, Silver and Gold tests must be taken in order, but
the Synchronized test can be taken at any time. Each test has
35 True/False and 15 Multiple Choice for a total of 50 questions. To pass each level at least 42 correct answers must be
given. Most answers can directly be found in the current editions of the Skaters and Coaches Handbook and the Judge
Manual.
On the Silver, Gold, Synchro and Update tests, there will be
several questions based on comparative judging or actual situations that may arise while judging an event. Sometimes these
answers cannot be directly found in the publications mentioned above.
All online test questions are currently based on the 2009 Rule
Revisions. The test questions will be updated to include the
2010 Rule Revisions on January 1, 2010. The current fee for
online certification tests is $35 each. That fee will be $40 each
after January 1, 2010. All tests are available online at www.skateisi.org
When you pass any level of Judge Certification exam, you will
automatically receive a complimentary certification pin that
can be proudly displayed on your coaching jacket. Collect all
four – and look for the new Referee Certification that is coming in the near future!
If you have any questions concerning the certification test
program, please contact Randy Winship, Director of Skating
Programs & Events at [email protected]
ISI Competitions and Judging
Section B: Judging Essentials
ISI competitions began in the 1960s when a group of skating instructors realized a need for a competition in which a skater of any
level could compete and would be matched fairly by age and ability
level. At that time, the majority of competitions were qualifying
events, and the majority of skaters were unable to participate. This
group of ISI “pioneers” wanted an event in which a skater could feel
a sense of accomplishment no matter where s/he placed, and where
results are only posted for first through fifth places, and all other
skaters could assume they placed sixth and not necessarily last.
To help spectators understand the complexity of the ISI judging
system, listed below are the criteria used for the most popular
events:
Beginning with the traditional event of a freestyle program only, the
popularity of this format grew quickly for two reasons: first, so
many more skaters were able to participate—and second, skating
the freestyle program did not depend on a skater’s placement in
compulsory figures. Yes, ISI separated compulsory figures from
freestyle events over 40 years ago!
Artistic: Artistic impression, choreography and pattern,
innovative moves, music interpretation and rhythm, edges and
flow, posture and carriage, duration, general overall.
Soon other events began to be added to ISI competitions—AlphaDelta, ice dancing where two girls could be partners, precision
teams, couples and pairs. Creativity flourished in the 1980s with
many “fun” events being added such as footwork, spotlight, team
compulsories and production numbers. Today it is not uncommon
for a skater to participate in eight events at one competition! What
a long way we have come from only offering events to advanced
skaters and having only one event in which to participate. It is understandable why we chose “Participation, Not Elimination” as our
motto!
Judging at ISI competitions is done by trained and certified ISI Professional Members. All skaters are judged on the exact same required elements and specific criteria. All coaches who have students
participating in an ISI competition are obligated to judge as volunteers because preparation for this competition creates additional
compensation for these coaches. Each team of skaters is asked to
supply one judge for every 10 events entered by that team. Equal
participation of judges is an important balance for the success of
these events.
Every effort is made to schedule judges so they do not have to judge
their own students or skaters from their rink, but on some occasions
it is necessary. According to ISI founder and charter member Michael Kirby, independent judges for testing and competitions aren’t
necessary. In every educational entity, including ice skating, teachers “judge” their own pupils with periodic tests and exams, so why
not in ice skating competitions? ISI’s closed system of judging involves subjectivity—naturally there will be differences of opinions,
yet it is actually very fair due to its complexity.
Every aspect of the performance is considered when being judged.
Each judge has different required elements and criteria that are
marked within a set point range. All skaters are compared within
the groups, and all marks are weighted equally towards the final
outcome of the event. Each type of event has specific eligibility and
performance rules (see the Skater’s and Coaches Handbook). Only a few deductions and penalties have been established for the purpose of giving credit to those skaters who do follow the rules.
Tot-Pre-Alpha: Test maneuvers, general overall, additional FSI
move for Pre-Alpha only.
Pre Alpha - Delta: Test level maneuvers, additional FS 1 maneuver,
arm and hand positions, back straight, correctness, knees bent, free
leg extended, pattern, rhythm, general overall and duration.
Couples: Test level maneuvers, correctness, duration, extra content,
pattern, position, posture, rhythm, unison, general overall.
Footwork: Continuity-flow, correctness of turns and edges, duration, music interpretation, originality/creativity, pattern, presentation (posture), variety of moves, general overall.
Freestyle: Test level maneuvers, correctness, duration, extra content, pattern, posture, rhythm, general overall.
Ice Dancing: Correctness, pattern, position, posture, timing, unison, interpretation.
Interpretive: Artistic impression, choreography and pattern, correctness, creativity, musical interpretation, posture and carriage.
Open Freestyle: Correctness, Choreography & Pattern, Variety of
Moves, Posture, Music Interpretation, Presentation, Duration and
General Overall
Pairs: Test level maneuvers, correctness, duration, extra content,
pattern, posture, rhythm, unison, general overall.
Spotlight: Costume and/or prop, duration, judges appeal, music
and choreography, originality.
Stroking: Cleanness of edges, endurance, extension of free leg, flexible skating knee-flow, posture, proper push-off, rhythm.
National Events Judging
Below are some guidelines for National events.
• All coaches must have a credential to put their skaters on the ice
at our national events.
• Judge credentials are given to current ISI Professional members
who have passed the ISI Judge Certification exam and any required Update Test. Judges must volunteer to judge and return
the Judge Schedule Request form to receive a credential.
• Coaches not currently certified must be a current ISI Professional member and then can purchase a Coach credential for the
event.
• Team points can be deducted from teams not supplying an appropriate number of judges.
27
Section B: Judging Essentials
W
ISI Judging 101
hether you are new to judging ISI competitions,
or haven’t judged a lot, relax! The following tips
will help you to judge with ease in no time!
Getting Started
Take a moment before you go to judge to review the requirements for that particular event. Open the ISI Skater’s and
Coaches Handbook and just re-read the maneuvers. You may
see something you didn’t remember. There are new 2009-10
Rule Revisions for many ISI events. Make sure you review the
changes and are up-to-date. When you know what events you
will judge, be sure to read the specific event details and performance rules in the back part of the Skaters and Coaches
Handbook. Finally, you may want to review the ISI Judges
Manual, which contains definitions of criterion and a handy
penalty reference chart.
If you are unfamiliar or unsure of an item, ask the referee for
clarification before the event begins. That’s what the referee
is for!
Review the number of skaters in the event and begin to think
about how you will use the point range that has been established. Sign your score sheet. Write in 7’s wherever you can,
before the event begins. (Remember duration is not scored
within the point range.)
Ready, Set, Judge!
As the skater enters the ice, write down something on the
score sheet to help you remember who this skater is. Usually
writing down the color of the outfit is helpful. You can write
in the areas of the score sheet that you will not be using, at
the bottom of the page or on a separate sheet of paper. (Be
sure to take all note pages with you; do not leave them on the
judge’s stand.) Do not write in the areas that the accountants
use to total the scores.
After the skater has finished it is a good idea to write some
quick notes in shorthand that you can understand in the
same area you used earlier. Some abbreviations that are used
are “F” (Fall), “Inc” (Incomplete), “–“ (Weak), “3” (average),
“+” (Good), “++” (Excellent). Find a system that works well
for you. It will be very helpful to be able to refer to these
notes toward the ends of the event. Every skater will now be
compared to the first skater in the event…were they better or
worse, and by how much.
Do not write while the skater is skating unless you can do it
without looking down. If you are looking down to write during a competitor’s program, you may miss the elements that
are being executed while you are writing!
Make sure to ask the referee immediately if you do not see an
element that is required. Perhaps the referee can verify if the
skater did or did not perform the requirement. Do not wait
until the end of the event to ask!
Set aside your own personal preferences while you are judging, and recognize all teaching methods. You should be judging the execution of the element, not whether the skater has
their arm or leg in the position you prefer.
Event Conclusion
Review your scores at the end of the event. Make sure that
you have used the entire point range for each criterion you are
judging. Check and make sure that you do not have the final
results tied. Try to make decisions that separate the skaters.
You should not discuss the judging of the event with anyone
except the panel.
An Ethical Judge
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
28
Is a current Professional Member of ISI.
Is an ISI Certified Judge.
Arrives 15 minutes prior to the scheduled panel.
Shows professional standards of conduct while on the panel,
as well as during the entire competition.
Gives up the role of coach while serving on the judges panel.
Does not judge beyond ability—knows the requirements for
the particular event, and if not familiar with the event, asks
to be replaced.
Evaluates performance as seen, not according to reputation.
Does not discuss results with parents, coaches, skaters, etc.
Puts aside own personal technique preferences, and gives
credit to all techniques used successfully.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
Gives full attention to the skater, takes judging role seriously.
Consults the competition director if there is a problem with
another judge or referee.
Converses only with other judges in reference to problem
areas of an event or regarding a particular maneuver in a
skater’s program.
Accepts referee’s authority and grades according to the ISI
system.
Attends the Coach & Judge meeting before the competition
begins.
Stays informed and educated by attending ISI seminars and
is updated on rules and guidelines through ISI publications.
Is supportive of competition results.
Section B: Judging Essentials
Join the Fun!
Become an ISI Competition Judge!
As an ISI Competition Judge:
3
You will gain invaluable knowledge of all ISI competition events.
3
You will gain invaluable knowledge of successful program layout.
3
You will learn to avoid common “coaching mistakes.”
3
You will earn the respect of your fellow peers and co-workers.
3
You can travel to attend events and meet new friends.
3
You can network with other coaches.
3
You will contribute to the success of the competition, the facility and ISI.
It’s easy to get started:
•
Join ISI as a Professional Member
• Attend an ISI Educational Program
• Annual Free District Seminar
• weSKATE Instructor Training
• ISI Annual Conference and Trade Show
• iAIM Certificate Program
•
Take the ISI Judge Certification Test
•
Learn more as you Trial Judge at ISI competitions.
Contact your local ISI Competition Director to volunteer.
29
Section B: Judging Essentials
Do You Feel The Heat When Judging?
Here are a few reminders to help you
keep your cool when judging!
Pre-Alpha-Delta
Spotlight Events
Freestyle 1-10
Skaters CAN HAVE ASSISTANCE getting props on and off
the ice.
Still have 30 secs. on and off and must still be timed.
Check new Duration times and maneuver limitations.
Feathers, etc. falling off costumes – no penalty if retrieved within
exit time.
Props left on the ice or “gifts” left for judges = 2.0 under
Costume & Props
Number of Crossovers forward and backward should be quality
vs. quantity
Bunny Hops are a Delta requirement and are not allowed at
lower levels
Edges must be consecutive, if not – score at the bottom of point
range
Simple Mohawk ok below Gamma if not the 7 step sequence
Stag jumps are not split jumps
1-foot entry into 2-foot spin-must put foot down within first
revolution
Edges must be consecutive, if not – score at the bottom of point
range
Uncaptured moves – 1 x walley jump / blade grabbers are O.K.
Open Freestyle
No required maneuvers, but well-rounded program.
Variety of Moves score should reflect a well-rounded program
Only technical score is for Correctness – for the technical
accuracy of the maneuvers performed and not the difficulty.
Artistic 1-10
See new maneuver limitations
Interpretive 1-10
See new maneuver limitations
Footwork 1-10
Should focus on quality, flow & turns/edges
Illusion is O.K. at any level
½ loop landed on toes O.K. (with no gliding out).
Solo Compulsories
The three required maneuvers may be performed in any order
No penalty for quantity on swizzles, wiggles or crossovers on
Pre-Alpha / Alpha / Beta levels
Penalty for second attempt or additional maneuvers
(Referee only 2.0)
30
Couples Spotlight
Check new levels, duration times and maneuver limitations
Rhythmic Skating
Same event rules & judging criteria as for Spotlight events –
except “Use of Prop”
Check new maneuver limitations.
No props allowed on warm-up.
Synchronized Skating Events
Check new event duration times.
New judging criteria for block, line, circle, wheel & intersection
Ensemble Team
Same event rules as Family Spotlight events.
maneuvers can be done at any level.
Jump & Spin Teams
Any skating
Required maneuvers in book cannot be changed.
All 3 judges evaluate both the jump and the spin
Two attempts and the best one is scored
Only the technical accuracy of the maneuver is judged, not the
difficulty.
Quick Quiz for Judging
Section B: Judging Essentials
Test your knowledge and see how many of these
questions can you get correct?
1. The judging criteria for the ISI Open Freestyle events are:
a.
d.
g.
b.
e.
h.
c.
f.
2. Which criterion has the most impact on the results?
3. With the new 2009 Rule Revisions, what penalty is most likely to occur in the Open Freestyle event?
4. The judging criteria for the ISI Artistic event are:
a.
d.
g.
b.
e.
h.
c.
f.
5. Which criterion has the most impact on the results?
6. Wit h the new 2009 Rule Revisions, what penalty is most likely to occur in the Artistic event?
7. Name 3 judging criteria for the Rhythmic event:
a.
b.
c.
8. What are the two most common illegal maneuvers performed in Pre-Alpha-Gamma programs?
9. What are the three most common illegal maneuvers performed in Freestyle programs?
10. When do you judge the first attempt of a maneuver?
11. When do you judge the best attempt of the maneuver?
12. With the new 2009 Rule Revisions, what are the 5 new judging criteria for Synchronized team events?
See answers on page 45
31
Section B: Judging Essentials
Referee Training
Duties:
• To insure that ISI rules are followed and interpreted
correctly.
• To insure that any penalties are applied correctly.
• To allow the skater a restart, if necessary.
• To insure that the panel results are accurate.
• To mentor ISI judges and coaches regarding ISI
competition philosophy, rules, and penalties.
• To assist the competition director in conflict resolution.
Qualifications:
• Current ISI Professional Member.
• Gold Judge Certification Test, with current Update Test.
• Actively judged at least 15 ISI competitions.
• Attended ISI district seminars/national Conference and
national events.
Benefits:
• Experience on the judge’s stand provides valuable coach
education.
• Networking with other coaches provides valuable
resources.
• Incentives offered at some events.
Before the event:
• Arrive at the panel early to be able to familiarize yourself
with the judges stand, communication equipment,
announcer, ice monitor, check supplies (stopwatches,
judges sheets, pencils, scrap paper, books, running order).
• Introduce your panel and hold a mini meeting to help
familiarize yourself and the panel with your event.
• Review the test requirements from the Skater’s &
Coaches Handbook, and the performance rules in the
Competitors Handbook section.
• Review the most common penalties for this event.
Discuss note taking and unanimous agreement for all
penalties. Encourage vertical scoring, not horizontal.
Discuss ways to find differences in jumps, spins, pattern,
rhythm, posture, etc.
• Have the judges sign all papers for the panel, and fill in
the 7’s.
32
During the event:
• Watch the warm-up, verify the correct number of skaters
and watch for safety hazards such as back arabesques, etc.
• Keep the competition on schedule by remaining in
constant communication with the announcer as to when
the next skater should take the ice.
• Call out the required maneuvers to the panel as they are
performed. Announce to the panel if the skater’s time has
exceeded the limit and if judging has to stop.
• Encourage discussion right away when an element is
missing or incomplete i.e. a single jump for double, no
Right T-stop, etc.
After the event:
• Briefly summarize the event, discuss the top 3 skaters.
• Check papers to be sure that entire point range was used.
• Stay available to accounting room until results are
posted/reviewed
• Alert competition director of any specific problems or
situations during the event i.e., music problems, skaters
entering wrong level, penalties, etc.
After the panel:
• Be available for mentoring, and conflict resolution as
needed.
• If penalties are given, try to find the coach of the skater
before the results are posted to explain what happened
and how to avoid for future events.
New Referee Certification Test
available online.
Section B: Judging Essentials
2010 ISI Test & Competition Revisions
The following 2010 Test & Competition Revisions are optional for ISI competitions after September 1, 2009
and mandatory for all events after January 1, 2010. Competition Directors should inform
all participants and judges if they will follow these new revisions for events from
September 1 – December 31, 2009.
1. Competition Event Revisions & Clarifications:
• Couples Spotlight Medium Duration for Freestyle 1-3 / Open Bronze is increased to 1:30
• Rhythmic Skating Duration (Ball, Hoop & Ribbon) for Freestyle 1-3 is increased to 1:30
• Uncaptured Spins – The back sit spin and back camel spin can be performed on either edge.
• Synchronized Formation Shoulder Hold position requires that both shoulders be held.
• Against the Book judging – Skaters will receive either 1st Place or 2nd Place. The judging panel should
discuss and agree on the placement, whenever possible.
The skater must still receive 80% of the total possible points for 1st Place. If the skater receives an average
total of 79.9% or below, they will receive 2nd Place.
For events with technical criteria, the skater should get 1st Place if the required maneuvers are completed to
the passing test standard for their age and ability level.
2. Ice Dancing Test Levels have been revised as follows:
Ice Dancing Tests 1-4:
Ice Dancing Test 5:
Ice Dancing Test 6:
Ice Dancing Test 7:
Ice Dancing Test 8:
Ice Dancing Test 9:
Ice Dancing Test 10:
No change
Hickory Hoedown, Willow Waltz, Ten Fox
14-Step, European Waltz, Foxtrot
American Waltz, Tango, Rocker Foxtrot
Kilian, Blues
Paso Doble, Starlight Waltz, Quickstep
Westminster Waltz, Argentine Tango, Viennese Waltz
3. Special Skater Test requirements have been revised as follows:
Special Skater tests 3, 5, 7 and 9 have a stop requirement for these levels. Skaters can do any stop at any level
– 2-foot or 1-foot snowplow, Left or Right T-stop or hockey stop.
Special Skater Test 9: The Mohawk requirement is for one forward to backward Mohawk on either foot or edge.
This requirement is NOT the same as the 7-step Mohawk combination in the Gamma test.
4. Test Scoring Clarification and National Test Registration – All ISI tests may be scored using the numerical
scale of 5-10 for a passing score on each requirement or may be scored as Pass/Retry. Each test requirement must
be performed to the passing test standard described in the Skaters and Coaches handbook in order to officially
pass the test. The Test Registration spreadsheet (available from ISI) will accept either method of scoring the tests.
33
Section B: Judging Essentials
2010 ISI COMPETITION EVENT CHART
TEST
LEVELS
Freestyle
Duration
Freestyle
Maneuvers
Artistic
Duration
Artistic
Maneuvers
Footwork
Duration
Spotlight
Duration
Spotlight
Maneuvers
Tots
Pre-Alpha
Alpha
Beta
Gamma
Delta
FS 1
FS 2
FS 3
Open Bronze
FS 4
FS 5
Open Silver
Open Gold
FS 6
FS 7
FS 8
FS 9
FS 10
Open Platinum
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.5
1.5
1.5
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
3.0
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.0
4.0
Tot level maneuvers
PreAlpha & below*
Alpha & below*
Beta & below*
Gamma & below*
Delta & below*
FS1 & below
FS2 & below
FS3 & below
FS3 & below
FS4 & below
FS5 & below
FS5 & below
FS6 & below
FS6 & below
FS7 & below
FS8 & below
FS9 & below
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS6 & below
FS6 & below
FS6 & below
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS6 & below
FS6 & below
FS6 & below
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
* Must include one maneuver from FS1
34
TEST
LEVELS
Rhythmic
Duration
Rhythmic
Maneuvers
Interpretive
Maneuvers
Couple
Spotlight
Levels
Couple
Spotlight
Duration
Couple
Spotlight
Maneuvers
Tots
Pre-Alpha
Alpha
Beta
Gamma
Delta
FS 1
FS 2
FS 3
Open Bronze
FS 4
FS 5
Open Silver
Open Gold
FS 6
FS 7
FS 8
FS 9
FS 10
Open Platinum
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS6 & below
FS6 & below
FS6 & below
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
n/a
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS6 & below
FS6 & below
FS6 & below
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Low
Low
Low
Low
Low
Low
Medium
Medium
Medium
Medium
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
High
High
High
High
High
High
High
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS1 & below
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS4 & below
FS6 & below
FS6 & below
FS6 & below
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Any maneuvers
Section B: Judging Essentials
New ISI Open Freestyle
Tests & Events
The Ice Skating Institute is 50 years old and we’re
having a special celebration year!
Have you heard about the new Open Freestyle tests?
All Freestyle skaters will now have a choice: follow our
traditional Freestyle 1-10 test program or use the new
ISI Open Freestyle test program. Skaters who have
already passed any ISI Freestyle-level tests can also
choose to participate in this new test program. In fact,
you can do BOTH the traditional freestyle levels and
the new Open Freestyle test levels!
One great new benefit is that USFS skaters who have
already passed the Pre-Preliminary, Adult Pre-Bronze or
any higher tests and wish to compete in ISI Freestyle
events do not need to pass any previous ISI tests. In the
past, the ISI Alpha-Delta and individual Freestyle-level
tests were required before USFS skaters could compete
at a higher Freestyle level — but not anymore! They only
have to take one of the new Open Freestyle tests corresponding to their current USFS test level.
Each skater taking these new tests must be a current
ISI Individual or Professional member. All skaters who
have not passed USFS Pre-Preliminary, Adult Pre-Bronze
or ISI Freestyle 1 test must pass the ISI Alpha-Delta tests
before taking the Bronze test.
Another great aspect of these new Open Freestyle
tests is that you have the option of choosing the required maneuvers you do best. While you still have
to complete all types of skating maneuvers to pass
the tests, you can choose your best jump or best spin
within each test-level category.
These new tests have the same format, guidelines
and general rules as the current ISI Freestyle tests.
Each test level consists of two parts: the compulsory
maneuvers and the program portion. Skaters must
pass the compulsory maneuvers before attempting
the program portion of the test. Only one current ISI
Professional member is required to judge and pass this
equivalency test.
If the skater has already passed
ISI Freestyle tests:
If the skater has already passed
USFSA Free Skate tests:
New Open Freestyle
level* will be:
Delta** or Freestyle 1-3
Pre-Preliminary
Adult Pre-Bronze
Adult Bronze
Bronze test
Freestyle 4-5
Preliminary
Pre-Juvenile
Adult Silver
Silver test
Freestyle 5-6
Juvenile
Intermediate
Adult Gold
Gold test
Freestyle 7-10
Novice
Junior
Senior
Platinum test
* Skaters can participate in a higher level, but not a lower level, based on the test equivalents. If skating in a higher level than
the test equivalent, the skater must past the new/higher Open Freestyle test level
** Skaters cannot participate in both Delta and FS1/Bronze level events. If a skater has passed the FS1 or Bronze test, they can
no longer compete in any Delta level events.
35
Section B: Judging Essentials
ISI Bronze Freestyle Test
1. Any two jumps from Freestyle 1-3 levels — can be done solo or in combination
2. One additional jump combination with any two jumps from Freestyle 1-3 levels
3. Two spins or spin combinations — can include upright 2-foot or 1-foot and change-foot
spins only
4. Two different arabesques — can be forward or backward and on different feet and/or different
edges
5. Dance step sequence — either the Freestyle 2 or Freestyle 3 dance step sequence or at least 10
steps of the skaters’ own design and pattern. Should include variety of 3-turns and Mohawks.
Solo program duration: 2:00 minutes including all of these required maneuvers
and any additional maneuvers from Freestyle 3 and below
Test Standards
Specific passing standard
descriptions for the
required maneuvers from
the current ISI Freestyle
1-10 test maneuvers can be
found in the 2010 edition
of the Skaters and Coaches
Handbook.
ISI Silver Freestyle Test
1. Any two jumps from Freestyle 4-5 levels — can be done solo or in combination
2. One additional jump combination with any two jumps from Freestyle 4-5 levels
3. Two spins or spin combinations — can include upright/sit/camel positions. One spin must
be a combination spin with a change of position or a sit spin or a camel spin.
4. Two backward arabesques — must be on different feet
5. Dance step sequence — either the Freestyle 4 or Freestyle 5 dance step sequence or at
least 16 steps of the skater’s own design and pattern. Should include turns such as:
3-turns, Mohawks, brackets, Choctaws, etc.
Solo program duration: 2:00 minutes including all of these required maneuvers
and any additional maneuvers from Freestyle 5 and below
ISI Gold Freestyle Test
1. Any two jumps from Freestyle 5-6 levels — can be done solo or in combination
2. One additional two-jump combination with the first jump from Freestyle 5-6. The second
jump can be from a lower level
3. Two spins — one must be a combination spin with change of foot, but cannot include any
flying spin
4. Dance step sequence — either the Freestyle 5 or Freestyle 6 dance step sequence or a
straight line or serpentine pattern footwork sequence covering the length of the ice of
the skaters’ own design. Should include a variety of turns and edges along with excellent
control, flow and speed.
Solo program duration: 3:00 minutes including all of these required maneuvers and
any additional maneuvers from Freestyle 6 and below
ISI Platinum Freestyle Test
Note on Jump
Requirements
All jump requirements for
these tests can have the
same jump(s) repeated
for different test requirements.
36
1. Any two jumps (or jump sequence requirement) from Freestyle 7-10 levels — can be done solo
or in combination
2. Two additional jump combinations with at least one double jump in each combination
3. Two spins — one must be a flying camel or flying sit spin
4. One spin combination with at least three different positions and one change of foot
5. Dance step sequence — either the Freestyle 7, Freestyle 8 or Freestyle 9 dance step sequence,
or a footwork sequence covering the length of the ice of the skater’s own design and pattern.
Should include a variety of turns and edges along with superior control, flow and speed.
Solo program duration: 4:00 minutes including all of these required maneuvers and
any additional maneuvers
Section B: Judging Essentials
New Open Freestyle Events
After you pass one of the new Open Freestyle tests,
then what can you do?
You can compete in the new Open Freestyle competition events at
the Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum level. All ISI skaters who have
already passed the traditional Freestyle 1-10 test levels are not
required to pass any additional test before they can also compete
in the new corresponding level for the Bronze, Silver, Gold and
Platinum Open Freestyle events.
Maneuver limitations:
For the Open Freestyle competition events, there are NO reqUIred
mANeUverS.
• Bronze-level skaters can do any maneuvers from
Freestyle 3 and below.
• Silver-level skaters can do any maneuvers from
Freestyle 5 and below.
• Gold-level skaters can do any maneuvers from
Freestyle 6 and below.
• Platinum-level skaters can do any maneuvers.
These competition event programs should be well balanced
and have the same duration times as the test-level requirements.
Even though some duration times for these new levels are slightly
longer than the traditional ISI Freestyle events, all ISI Freestyle
skaters can use the same Freestyle program to compete in
this new event category since there is never any penalty in ISI
competitions for skating under the prescribed duration time.
Because there is no score for “extra content” in the new Open
Freestyle events, the slight difference in duration times won’t be a
factor in the overall quality of the program.
Event judging criteria:
The ISI competition director now has the option to group
entries into Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum categories for the
following ISI events:
• Artistic
• Spotlight
• Interpretive
• Footwork
• Solo Compulsories
• Rhythmic
For example, entries can be grouped with “Artistic 1-2-3” skaters
together and with “Artistic Bronze” skaters together in separate
groups, or they can be combined into a single “Artistic Bronze”
event group. The competition event groups can be further divided
based on the entries received and the age of the skaters with no
more than nine competitors in any event group.
The event divisions are:
• Bronze - Freestyle 1-3 skaters and Bronze-level skaters
• Silver - Freestyle 4-5 skaters and Silver-level skaters
• Gold - Freestyle 5-6 skaters and Gold-level skaters
• Platinum - Freestyle 7-10 skaters and Platinum-level skaters
Note: ISI Freestyle 5 skaters have a choice of competing in the
Silver or Gold event level for each event, i.e. Open Freestyle,
Artistic, Spotlight, Interpretive, etc. They must stay in the same
level (Silver or Gold) for all events at the same competition.
Solo Compulsory events – If skaters who have only passed
the Open Freestyle tests want to compete in a Solo Compulsory
event, they must skate in the corresponding levels listed below:
• Bronze - Solo Compulsory Freestyle 3
• Silver - Solo Compulsory Freestyle 5
• Gold - Solo Compulsory Freestyle 6
• Platinum - Choose any Freestyle 7-10 level on the entry
form for that competition event.
The following judging criteria will be used for the new
Open Freestyle events: correctness, variety of moves, music
interpretation, choreography and pattern, posture, presentation,
duration and general overall.
You think that’s a lot of new stuff? Well, you’re right! We’ve
already received many “rave reviews” from excited coaches and
skaters who have already tried these new events.
So you also want to participate in other ISI competition events such as Artistic, Footwork, Interpretive,
Spotlight, Solo Compulsories and rhythmic Skating?
2009-10 Competition Event Rule Revisions
No problem! You can sign-up for any or all of these events in
the Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum levels by following the
performance rules for each event. The only ISI Freestyle-level
competition events you cannot do by only passing the Bronze,
Silver, Gold or Platinum tests are the individual Freestyle events —
such as Freestyle 1, 2, 3, etc.
All ISI skaters and coaches should carefully check the new
duration times and maneuver limitations for some ISI events.
These changes are now mandatory for all ISI competitions.
37
Renew Now for the Best Deal!
A friendly reminder:
Sept. 1
Current ISI Professional memberships and liability insurance must be renewed by Sept. 1.
ISI’s insurance benefits are the best in the industry —
more coverage at a lower price — plus, ISI policies
continue to meet all other association requirements,
with an extended term of July 1 through Aug. 31 of the
following year.
Renew your 2009-10 membership at
the same time as your insurance and
get both for only $150!
Section B: Judging Essentials
New!
Synchronized
Skating Tests
ISI
’s 50th
A nniversary
celebration year is
half over, but we’re
not finished yet!
How about something brand new
especially for ISI
Synchro skaters?
It’s been a long time coming, but the ISI Synchro Committee has approved four new ISI Synchronized Skating
tests. These new tests are not required for any team to
compete in any ISI synchronized competitions or exhibition events.
The new ISI Synchronized Skating 1-4 tests are specifically designed as building blocks for beginning teams to help
encourage, reward and recognize the teams’ progress and
achievement as they learn the basics of synchronized skating.
The tests must be taken in order (1-4) and the entire
team is judged on a “Pass” or “Incomplete” basis for each
required element by any current ISI Professional member.
It is strongly recommended that these tests be given by
another coach in the area with synchronized team background and experience rather than the team’s own coach.
However, if new beginner teams are in an isolated area, this
might not always be possible. The test forms are included
in the online link for all ISI test forms at www.skateisi.org.
Each coach should submit a completed test form and
team roster to Angela Tooley at [email protected] for
registration.
After completing the Synchronized Skating 2 and
Synchronized Skating 4 test requirements, teams will
have mastered all of the skills necessary to compete in
the Synchronized Formation Compulsory and Synchro-
nized Skating Compulsory events. Teams can then expand
these basic team skills to prepare a longer program for the
Synchronized Formation, Synchronized Skating and/or
Synchronized Dance events.
The test level(s) passed by any team has no bearing on
their competition event registration. For example, a team
can pass Synchronized Skating 4 and still compete in the
Synchronized Formation events at all ISI competitions.
Again, these tests are designed to be used by the coach only
as encouragement and recognition tools for a beginning
synchronized team.
After Sept. 1 when you register your team(s) for the
2009-10 skating year, a colorful new “ISI Synchronized Skating Team Member” badge will be provided for each team
member with your $10 team registration fee. Coordinating
crescent-shaped test badges are also available for each test
level and can be ordered
by the coach after the
team’s test registration is
complete.
Test badges can be
used as a reward for reaching goals and are a great
motivator toward higher
achievement levels. If
new team members join
after the test has been
completed, the coach
can purchase additional
badges to award them
after they perform with
the team in an exhibition, show or competition
event to complete the test
requirements.
39
Section B: Judging Essentials
ISI SYNCHRONIZED SKATING TESTS 1-4
Below is a summary of the test requirements. For complete descriptions, please refer to the test requirement details on the
synchronized skating page of the ISI Web site (skateisi.org).
SYNCHRONIZED SKATING TEST
1.
2.
Demonstration of HolDs – In a stationary formation, team members must demonstrate the correct position and
posture for the following holds:
a. Hand Hold – choice of circle or wheel formation
b. Shoulder Hold – choice of wheel, line or block
formation
c. Waist Hold – as in circle formation (sometimes called
a Choo-choo Hold)
forwarD skating line – Must be performed in Shoul-
forwarD CirCle – Choice of Shoulder, Waist or Hand
Hold. The circle formation must rotate in either clockwise or
counterclockwise direction for a minimum of two complete
revolutions.
4.
5.
forwarD two-spoke wHeel (pinwHeel) –
Choice of Shoulder, Hand or Basket-weave Hold. The wheel
formation must rotate in either clockwise or counterclockwise
direction for a minimum of two complete revolutions.
forwarD skating BloCk – A block formation with
a minimum of three lines performed in Shoulder Hold position
covering at least half the length of the ice surface.
SYNCHRONIZED SKATING TEST
4.
forwarD BloCk into forwarD CirCle – Starting in a Forward Block (minimum three-line formation) that
covers at least half the length of the ice, the team must make
transition into a Forward Circle and rotate a minimum of two
complete revolutions.
5.
synCHronizeD formation Compulsory
program – The team must perform a program routine
consisting of the following elements (as described above):
a. Forward Skating Line
b. Forward Circle
c. Forward Two-Spoke Wheel
d. Forward Skating Block
e. Forward Intersection
Program can include the specific transitions as required in Synchronized Test 2 or any other transition combinations.
Duration time is 1:45 with a 10-second leeway over that time
permitted. See Additional Program Notes on page 29.
SYNCHRONIZED SKATING TEST
1.
footwork BloCk – A block of at least three lines consisting of any skating steps and turns that covers the length of
the ice surface. The block must change direction, and changes
of hold are also permitted.
3.
CirCle – Circle or circles may consist of any skating steps
with additional moves permitted with change of direction or
hold permitted for a minimum of two complete revolutions.
4.
wHeel – Any wheel or combination of wheels may move
of the team intersects the other half of the team.
2.
forwarD skating line into forwarD
two-spoke wHeel – Starting in a Forward Skating
Line covering at least half the length of the ice in Shoulder
Hold position, the team must make transition into a Forward
Two-Spoke Wheel and rotate a minimum of two complete
revolutions.
line – Can be performed in any hold or combination of holds
2.
2
forwarD interseCtion – Any formation where half
3
covering the length of the ice surface.
Note: Maneuver requirements are the same as in Test 1.
1.
forwarD two-spoke wHeel into a forwarD BloCk – Starting in a Forward Two-Spoke Wheel
that rotates a minimum of two complete revolutions, the team
must make transition into a Forward Block (minimum three-line
formation) that covers at least half of the length of the ice.
1
der Hold (both shoulders) consisting of forward marching steps
and/or forward stroking covering at least half of the length of
the ice.
3.
3.
forward or backward, clockwise or counter-clockwise, with any
skating steps or maneuvers permitted for a minimum of two
complete revolutions.
5.
interseCtion – An intersection or combination of
intersections in which one-half of the team moves through the
other half of the team. If multiple intersections are performed,
they must be continuous.
40
Section B: Judging Essentials
SYNCHRONIZED SKATING TEST
4
Note: Maneuver requirements are the same as in Test 3.
1.
line to interseCtion – After completing a Line
formation for the length of the ice, the team must transition
into an Intersection.
2.
interseCtion to CirCle – After completing an Intersection, the team must transition into a Circle formation and
rotate for a minimum of two complete revolutions.
3.
CirCle to footwork BloCk – After completing a
Circle formation for a minimum of two complete revolutions,
the team must transition into a Footwork Block (minimum
three lines) that covers the length of the ice.
4.
footwork BloCk to wHeel – After completing
a Footwork Block (minimum three lines) the length of the
ice, the team must transition into a Wheel and rotate for a
minimum of two complete revolutions.
5.
synCHronizeD skating Compulsory
program – The team must perform a program routine
consisting of the following elements (as described in Synchronized Test 3):
a. Line
b. Footwork Block
c. Circle
d. Wheel
e. Intersection
Program can include the specific transitions as required in Synchronized Test 4 or any other transition combinations.
Additional maneuvers can be included in the program, but emphasis should be on clean performance and unison of the required
elements listed above.
Duration time is 2:30 with a 10-second leeway over that time
permitted. See Additional Program Notes to the right.
ADDITIONAL
PROGRAM NOTES
a. in the Compulsory programs, the Circle and wheel
program requirements (test 2, nos. 5b and 5c, and
test 4, nos. 5c and 5d) are not required to rotate a
minimum of two complete revolutions. the circle and
wheel rotations can be less than two or more than two
revolutions based on the program choreography and
music.
b. acrobatic lifts are not allowed.
c. Backward arabesque intersections are not allowed.
d. Jumps (single rotation and below) are permitted at any
level of synchronized skating Compulsory only (test 4,
no. 5). axels are permitted in the skating category with
less than half of the team performing the jump at any
time. no double or triple jumps are allowed at any level.
e. spins are restricted to upright spins only in the tot/Jr.
youth/youth/sr. youth age groupings. any spins are
allowed in the teen and adult age groupings.
f. isi synchronized team age groupings (for both
formation and skating teams) are based on the skater’s
age as of the previous July 1 as follows:
tot team . . . . . . . . majority 6 years and under
Jr. youth . . . . . . . . majority 8 years and under
youth . . . . . . . . . . majority 9-11 years
sr. youth . . . . . . . . majority 12-14 years
teen . . . . . . . . . . . majority 14-19 years
adult . . . . . . . . . . . majority 20-39 years
master . . . . . . . . . majority 40+ years
note: adult and master categories may be combined if
insufficient entries.
If you have a new team or are planning to start one
this season, be among the first to proudly wear the
new ISI Synchronized team badges.
For more information, please contact Randy
Winship at [email protected] or (972) 735-8800.
41