Skate Canada Officials
Judges and Evaluators
Judges and evaluators officiate at assessment days and competitions in various capacities. The first step is to attend a STAR Judge Seminar, which is typically held once or twice a year by the BC Coast Region, where training is provided to ensure prospective candidates can assess skaters confidently and successfully.
Technical Panel
Technical officials are key members of the competition assessment team. Their role is to assist in the identification and value assessment of elements within skaters’ performances. Training for technical officials is provided at the Section level and above.
Data Specialists
Data Specialists (DS) set up and operate the computer systems at all levels of competition. They are trained to work with the judging and technical panels, to translate skaters’ scores and assessments into results. Training begins with Region level events progressing through Section level and above, and includes a combination of practical experience and e-learning modules and exams.
The first step to becoming a figure skating judge is often to take a STAR 1 to 4 assessor clinic. Officials at this level are called “assessors” because they work in a team of three to evaluate a skater’s performance and assign “scores” by consensus. Not only is it great feedback for the skater, but a gentle introduction to judging using rubrics, communication, and team learning. In order to participate in a STAR 1 to 4 assessor clinic you must:
Be at least 16 years of age
Have passed at least two STAR 5 (Junior Bronze) or one STAR 6 (Senior Bronze) skating test in dance, freeskate, or skills.
Assessor clinics are typically held in the fall at the start of the recreational skating season. Contact bccoastregion@gmail.com to express interest.