You can stop by any time to watch a practice.  If you would like to give speedskating a try, please contact us to schedule a time.  There are no club fees to try speedskating.  However, everyone who gets on the ice must sign a waiver and pay a $10 fee to US Speedskating.  If you decide to continue skating, that fee will be credited towards a regular US Speedskating membership.

What do I need to bring?

Skaters need a helmet - any kind will do.  You should also wear long sleeves and pants and bring a pair of gloves.  Any type of skates will do.  We sometimes have loaner speed skates available, and the rink has hockey and figure skates available.

What other equipment is needed if I keep skating?

Skaters should wear a neck guard (hockey type) in addition to the helmet and long sleeves and pants.  For competitions, special speedskating helmets and shin guards are also required.  Speed skates are also essential.  These can be rented from Don Giese (doninhome@comcast.net).  They can also be purchased from Mr. Giese or any of the vendors listed at www.usspeedskating.org.

From time to time, our club members order new ice blades and team skinsuits, as well as warm up gear.  Please check with the club president or vice president if you want more information.

What competitions are available?

There are competitions for all levels of skaters, including beginners.  There are several local competitions each year, as well as competitions hosted by clubs in other states.  Our club skaters attend several out-of-state competitions each year, including the U.S. Nationals.  There are races for beginners, advanced, masters age, and special needs skaters.  The schedule is posted at www.usspeedskating.org.

What other costs are there?

All skaters must be members in good standing of US Speedskating and the Chesapeake Speedskating Association.  Yearly fees for US Speedskating range from $10 for new, non-competing skaters, to $55 for competitive skaters.  Membership in Chesapeake Speedskating Association is $15.  There are family caps for both organizations.  Club skating fees vary depending upon how many times per week you want to skate.  Drop-in rates are also available.  Please contact the club president or vice president for more information.

What is Dryland?

Dryland training is off-ice training that includes warm-up and exercises to help skaters develop the muscles and stamina for speed skating.  Dryland training is just as important as on-ice training, and we encourage skaters to participate in both.