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Terms used:

Act

The Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act S.C. 2009, c.23 including the regulations made pursuant to the Act, and any statute or regulations that may be substituted, as amended from time to time.

Base Level Technical Official

An individual sixteen years of age or older who is responsible for accurate technical panel process and for authorizing, correcting, deleting and adding elements to the list of elements performed during an event. The BLTO assists with the identification of elements in competition. The BLTO also assists with the identification of falls and illegal elements where appropriate to the level. The BLTO is qualified to act on a panel at or below a specified level of competition in singles only and can only be assigned to events where elements can be called no higher than base level and juvenile singles.

Base Level Technical Officials

An individual sixteen years of age or older who is responsible for accurate technical panel process and for authorizing, correcting, deleting and adding elements to the list of elements performed during an event. The BLTO assists with the identification of elements in competition. The BLTO also assists with the identification of falls and illegal elements where appropriate to the level. The BLTO is qualified to act on a panel at or below a specified level of competition in singles only and can only be assigned to events where elements can be called no higher than base level and juvenile singles.

Categories

The name for each level of competition within a discipline.  Examples of categories are STAR 1, STAR 2, Pre-Juvenile, Juvenile, Pre-Novice, etc.

Challenge

A championship that qualifies athletes toward and including, but not limited to, the Canadian Figure Skating Championships.

Chief Data Specialist

The data specialist who oversees the team of data specialists at a competition.

Club

A not-for-profit organization that is operating for the general purpose of providing Skate Canada skating programs and is managed by a volunteer board of directors.

Cumulative Points Calculation

The Cumulative Points Calculation Judging System is a method for the calculation of results in the sport of figure skating. This system is based on the principle that a performance can be divided into elements (of difficulty) and program components, each of which can be evaluated individually. The total of the marks for all of the elements and components forms the score for each skater or team in a competition. The highest scoring skater or team is declared the winner. The second highest places second and so on.

Data Specialist

An individual sixteen years of age or older who has been trained and appointed to calculate the results of sanctioned figure skating competitions.

Data Specialists

An individual sixteen years of age or older who has been trained and appointed to calculate the results of sanctioned figure skating competitions.

Evaluator

An individual sixteen years of age or older who is responsible for evaluating assessments in the STAR 6-Gold structure.  Evaluators are qualified to assess in one or more disciplines.

Evaluators

An individual sixteen years of age or older who is responsible for evaluating assessments in the STAR 6-Gold structure.  Evaluators are qualified to assess in one or more disciplines.

Event

The name given to a group of skaters entered in a category.  There may be one event per category or several events per category depending on the number of total entries.  Each event is independent of the other events within the category. 

Events

The name given to a group of skaters entered in a category.  There may be one event per category or several events per category depending on the number of total entries.  Each event is independent of the other events within the category. 

Good Standing

A person who has paid all dues outstanding to Skate Canada, a Club, or a Skating School (as applicable) and whom the Board has not declared not to be in good standing and in the case of Members, a Member whose Membership has not been terminated pursuant to Article 3 hereof [of the bylaws].

International Skating Union

The International Skating Union (ISU) is the exclusive international sport federation recognized by the International Olympic Committee administering the sports of Figure Skating and Speed Skating throughout the world. The ISU is composed of a number of national associations called ISU Members that administer ISU sports at the national level and recognize that all international matters are under the sole jurisdiction and control of the ISU.

Invitational Competitions

A competition that is open to competitors and/or teams from more than one club and may include members of other foreign associations. There may be a selection process whereby skaters qualify to advance to higher levels of competition based on their results at the club/regional/sectional level.

Judge

An individual sixteen years of age or older who has been trained and appointed to officiate at or below a specified level of competition in one or more of singles, pairs, ice dance or synchronized skating.

Judges

An individual sixteen years of age or older who has been trained and appointed to officiate at or below a specified level of competition in one or more of singles, pairs, ice dance or synchronized skating.

Level Of Difficulty

The term given to certain features of elements that increase the value of an element. There are 5 levels of difficulty ranging from Level Base to Level 4.

Member

Each person that meets the requirements of any of the three Member classes as defined in Article 3 hereof [of the bylaws] and that has been duly admitted as a member of Skate Canada.

 

Members

Each person that meets the requirements of any of the three Member classes as defined in Article 3 hereof [of the bylaws] and that has been duly admitted as a member of Skate Canada.

 

Officer

The President and such other officers as the Board may determine by Ordinary Resolution.

Referee

A referee of an event within a competition is an experienced judge who has received further training to conduct an event and monitor the performance of the panel of judges. Referees are qualified to referee or judge at or below a specified level of competition in one or more of singles, pairs, ice dance or synchronized skating.

Referees

A referee of an event within a competition is an experienced judge who has received further training to conduct an event and monitor the performance of the panel of judges. Referees are qualified to referee or judge at or below a specified level of competition in one or more of singles, pairs, ice dance or synchronized skating.

Rhythm

The regularly repeated pattern of accented and unaccented beats which gives the music its character.

Rhythm Dance

A dance created by an ice dance team to dance music with designated rhythm(s) and/or theme(s) selected annually by the ISU Ice Dance Technical Committee.

Section

An organization incorporated or organized in a particular province or territory (and in some cases, a combination thereof) strategically aligned with Skate Canada, that may receive funds from provincial or territorial Governmental Authorities and be subject to applicable sport recognition programs and transfer payment arrangements. Each Section is held to the governance and operating requirements of their respective province and / or territory(ies) and is responsible for skating in their respective jurisdictions.

Segment

The name given to a portion of an event.  Some categories have two segments (e.g., short program and free program) and some categories have only one segment.

Segments

The name given to a portion of an event.  Some categories have two segments (e.g., short program and free program) and some categories have only one segment.

Skate Canada Challenge

A championship that qualifies athletes toward and including, but not limited to, the Canadian Figure Skating Championships.

Technical Controller

An individual sixteen years of age or older who is responsible for accurate technical panel process and authorizes, corrects, deletes and adds elements to the list of elements performed during an event. Technical controllers are qualified to act on panels at or below a specified level of competition in one or more of singles, pairs, ice dance or synchronized skating.

Technical Controllers

An individual sixteen years of age or older who is responsible for accurate technical panel process and authorizes, corrects, deletes and adds elements to the list of elements performed during an event. Technical controllers are qualified to act on panels at or below a specified level of competition in one or more of singles, pairs, ice dance or synchronized skating.

Technical Specialist

An individual sixteen years of age or older who identifies elements and levels of difficulty of elements in competition. The technical specialist also identifies falls and illegal elements. Technical specialists are qualified to act on panels at or below a specified level of competition in one or more of singles, pairs, ice dance or synchronized skating.

Technical Specialists

An individual sixteen years of age or older who identifies elements and levels of difficulty of elements in competition. The technical specialist also identifies falls and illegal elements. Technical specialists are qualified to act on panels at or below a specified level of competition in one or more of singles, pairs, ice dance or synchronized skating.

Trial Judge

A person who is training to become qualified as a judge or a judge who is training to become qualified at a higher level.

Trial Judges

A person who is training to become qualified as a judge or a judge who is training to become qualified at a higher level.

General Appointment and Promotion Procedures for all Officials

Individuals who meet the established criteria and are interested in seeking initial appointment or promotion as an official must apply, or communicate their intention to the appropriate officials committee within their section.

Individuals who have completed the requirements outlined in this procedure in one or more disciplines shall submit an application for appointment and/or promotion to the appropriate Section Officials Committee or the Officials’ Assignment and Promotion Committee.

All training requirements outlined in this procedure shall be valid for three years from the date of completion. Requests to extend the validity of training requirements must be made in writing to the Section Officials Committee or, for Challenge level and higher officials and level III data specialists, the Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee.

The dates relating to the submission of promotion applications, applications for exams and the receipt of recommendations and appointment reviews shall be established annually by the Officials’ Assignment and Promotion Committee and are communicated to the appropriate section officials committees.

The Section Officials Committee or Section Data Specialists Committee, as appropriate, may require any evaluator, judge, referee, base level technical official, technical controller, technical specialist or data specialist to attend additional seminars or clinics and/ or write an examination as a condition of continued appointment.

An individual wishing to appeal a decision of the Section Officials Committee shall submit in writing a request for appeal to the staff lead of Officials Committee Officials’ Assignment and Promotion Committee. The chair of the applicable Section Officials Committee must be copied on this request.

Any individual wishing to appeal the decisions of the Officials’ Assignment and Promotion Committee shall forward the request for appeal to the Chief Executive Officer and must copy to the applicable Section Officials Committee. The CEO will appoint a working group of three people, who are not members of the Officials’ Assignment and Promotion Committee will review and decide on the appeal.

In exceptional circumstances the Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee shall have the authority, to recommend the promotion of an official even if the requirements for promotion have not been entirely met

The Officials’ Assignment and Promotion Committee may take any action deemed necessary with respect to the appointment, promotion, demotion or deletion of any official to ensure that the best interests of skating and Skate Canada are protected.

Judges, Evaluators, Referees, Base Level Technical Officials, Technical Controllers, Technical Specialists and Phase II Technical Panel Assessors

The appointment and promotion of all judges, evaluators, referees, base level technical officials, technical controllers, technical specialists and Phase II Technical Panel Assessor appointments shall be managed in the following manner:

  • The Section Officials Committee will offer training clinics for evaluator, judge, referee and base level technical official applicants based on need in terms of location, discipline, and level). Clinic leaders are responsible for training and assessment of the performance in the clinic. It is recommended that the total number of participants at each clinic shall not exceed fifteen per clinic leader.
  • Skate Canada in conjunction with the sections will offer training clinics for section level technical controllers and specialists applicants based on need in terms of location, discipline and level. Technical controllers and/or specialists will be selected by the Officials Development Committee and Skate Canada staff to act as clinic leaders, and will be responsible for training during the clinic and assessing the performance of candidates in the clinic. It is recommended that the total number of participants at each clinic shall not exceed fifteen per clinic leader.
  • The appropriate Section Officials Committee shall review for approval all judge, evaluator, referee, base level technical official, technical controller, technical specialist and Phase II Technical Panel Assessor promotion applications up to and including the section level. The Section Officials Committee will communicate the decision directly to the candidate and if approved, to Skate Canada’s Member Services Department. Appointments shall take effect immediately.
  • Applications to take Challenge and Canadian judge, referee, technical controller and technical specialist exams are to be submitted to the Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee for review and consideration for approval. A letter of support from the section must accompany Challenge singles, pairs and ice dance exam applications, and Canadian synchronized skating exams applications. The Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee will communicate final decisions directly to the candidate and will copy the Section Officials Committee.
  • International and ISU judge, referee, technical controller and technical specialist exam applications are to be submitted to the Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee for review and consideration for approval. The committee will communicate this decision directly to the candidate and copy the Section Officials Committee. Following successful completion of all of the requirements for nomination, candidates’ applications will be forwarded, to the ISU for consideration for approval by April 15 of each year

Data Specialists

The appointment and promotion of all data specialists shall be dealt with in the following manner:

  • The Section Data Specialist Committee will offer training clinics based on need in terms of location, discipline, and level.
  • The Section Data Specialist Committee will review for approval all introductory and level I applications. The Section Data Specialist Committee will communicate the decision directly to the candidate and if approved, to Skate Canada’s Member Services Department. Appointments shall take effect immediately.
  • All level II and III data specialist applications for promotion are to be submitted to the Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee by the Section Data Specialists Committee for review and consideration for approval. The Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee shall notify the Section Data Specialist Committee of the decisions on level II promotions. The Section Data Specialists Committee will communicate the decision to the individuals concerned. The Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee will communicate the decision regarding level III applications directly to the candidate and will copy the Section Data Specialist Committee.

Skating Background

"Skating background" is referenced throughout this document. The "Skating Background" required for the specified levels of appointment is as follows:

  • Any two of Junior Bronze or STAR 5 Free Skating, Skills, Dance tests; or
  • Any one of Senior Bronze Free Skating, Skills, Dance or a Juvenile Competitive test; or
  • Any one higher level test.


Announcement of Appointments

Appointments as evaluators, Primary/STAR 1-4 to Senior judges, invitational to section referees, base level technical officials, section level technical controllers, section level technical specialists or Phase II Technical Panel Assessors shall become effective on the date of approval by the Section Officials Committee.

Appointments as Skate Canada Challenge or Canadian Championship judges, referees, technical controllers or technical specialists shall become effective on the date of approval by the Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee.

Appointments as International or ISU judges, referees, technical controllers or technical specialists shall become effective on the date determined by the ISU.

Appointments as introductory and level I data specialist shall become effective on the date of approval by the Section Data Specialists Committee.

Appointments as level II or III data specialist shall become effective on the date of approval by the Officials’ Assignment and Promotion Committee.

Reappointment of Officials

After review by the appropriate officials committee the official may be re-appointed to a level no higher than their previous level of appointment. 

The section officials committee may require additional activities for re-appointment if deemed necessary

Challenge level and higher officials and level III data specialists who have been inactive for longer than 24 months will be required to complete up-dating activities at the discretion of the Officials’ Assignment and Promotion Committee.

ISU and International officials will follow the guidelines for re-nomination and re-appointment as outlined in ISU Special Regulations and Technical Rules.

Procedure for Judges

STAR 1-4 event assessors who are inactive for 24 to 36 months will need to:

  • Review rule changes with a clinic leader or senior judge
  • Monitor a panel or participate in a mock panel for at least 12 skaters, which may be from multiple events

STAR 1-4 event assessors who are inactive for longer than 36 months will need to follow the appointment procedure as outlined in the requirements for promotion and appointment as an event assessor.

Juvenile to Senior sectional/regional judges who are inactive for 24 to 36 months will need to:

  • Provide at least two satisfactory reports of trial judging of events at the level to which they are seeking re-appointment. For Novice and Senior level judges these should be complete events (short/rhythm and free if applicable to discipline). Please note, the short/rhythm and free segments may be from different events/competitions; however, a total of two short/rhythm and two free segments is required.

Juvenile to Senior sectional/regional judges who are inactive for longer than 36 months will need to:

  • Confirm that they have been previously been trained to officiate in the Cumulative Points Calculation (CPC) judging system
    • If not previously trained to officiate in CPC, they must attend a training seminar in CPC. This seminar should be a one to two day seminar led by a Skate Canada clinic leader and include practical exercises such as trial judging.
    • If previously trained to officiate in CPC, they must successfully complete a CPC refresher seminar. This seminar should be a half-day to a day spent with a senior level or higher judge who is ideally (but not necessarily) also a clinic leader. Content of the refresher seminar will be determined by the Section Judges Committee.
  • Provide at least two satisfactory trial judge reports of events at the level to which they are seeking re-appointment. For Novice and Senior level judges these should be complete events (short/rhythm and free in applicable to discipline). Please note, the short/rhythm and free segments may be from different events/competitions; however, a total of two short/rhythm and two free segments is required.
  • The Section Officials Committee may require additional activities for re-appointment if deemed necessary

Procedure for Evaluators

Evaluators who have been inactive for 24 to 36 months will need to:

  • Complete one supervised trial evaluating session per discipline (actual or simulated), including a selection of tests from Senior Bronze to the level at which they are seeking re-appointment.

Evaluators who have been inactive for longer than 36 months will need to:

  • Complete record of trial evaluating in the applicable discipline
  • Complete one supervised trial evaluating session per discipline (actual or simulated), including a selection of tests from Senior Bronze to the level at which they are seeking re-appointment.

Procedure for Referees

Invitational referees who have been inactive for longer than 24 months will need to:

  • Be re-appointed as a judge (following procedure outlined above)
  • Provide at least two satisfactory reports of judging at their respective level of qualification

Section or regional referees who have been inactive for longer than 24 months will need to:

  • Be re-appointed as a judge (following procedure outlined above)
  • Provide at least two satisfactory reports of judging at their respective level of qualification
  • Satisfactory refereeing of at least one complete interclub or invitational event (one short/rhythm and one free) in the applicable discipline.

Procedure for Technical Panel Officials

Base level technical officials and sectional/regional technical controllers and technical specialists who are inactive for 24 to 36 months will need to:

  • Pass the Skate Canada Phase I Technical Rules Written Exam for that discipline.
  • Successfully complete the Phase II Authentic Assessment(s) for that discipline:
    • Singles must have a minimum of 12 skaters (short and/or free), which may be in one or multiple events.
    • Pairs and ice dance must have a minimum of 6 teams (rhythm and/or free of which for ice dance a minimum of 4 must be rhythm dance), which may be in one or multiple events.
    • Synchronized skating must have a minimum of 6 teams (must be from Adult I, Intermediate, Open, Junior or Senior), which may be in one or multiple events.
  • Note, that for sectional/regional technical controllers and specialists (all disciplines) the categories must be assessed using the level of difficulty scale.

Base level technical officials (singles only) and sectional/regional technical controllers and technical specialists who are inactive for longer than 36 months, will need to follow the appointment procedure as outlined in the requirements for promotion as a base level technical officials, technical controllers and technical specialists respectively.

Procedure for Data Specialists

Introductory, level I and level II data specialists who have been inactive for 24 to 36 months will need to:

  • Successfully assist at a minimum of one competition with satisfactory assessments from the chief data specialist (or alternate)

Introductory, level I and level II data specialists who have been inactive for longer than 36 months will need to:

  • Confirm that they have been previously been trained in the Competition Scoring System (CSS) for CPC. If not previously trained in CSS, they must successfully complete a section clinic that includes instruction on computer applications
  • Successfully complete the data specialist workbook for the level (level I and II only)
  • Successfully assist at a minimum of one competition with satisfactory assessments from the chief data specialist (or alternate)

Requirements for Appointment or Promotion as a Judge

The specific requirements for appointment to each level are summarized below. Each judging level is a pre-requisite to the ones that follow it. Complete details can be found in the relevant training materials. Where indicated, video exercises may be substituted for actual/ demonstrated exercises if the Section Officials Committee deems it necessary. In exceptional circumstances, partial judging promotions or appointments (i.e. Pre-Novice or Junior) may be considered with the approval of the Section Officials Committee.

Officials that possessed Juvenile Judge or higher qualifications in any discipline prior to the inclusion of the ‘skating background’ requirements listed above can be considered for higher levels of promotion as an official. This exception applies to all subsequent levels of judge, and referee qualifications. Note that promotion can only occur in a discipline in which the official is already qualified.

Activity, submission requirements, review and consideration of promotions required for subsequent levels of promotion are to be completed as per provisions contained within this procedure (i.e. if a Pre-Novice Singles Judge wishes to be considered for promotion to Novice Singles Judge, requirements for that promotion as listed herein would need to be completed).

Primary Club Judge

This promotion is active for pairs only (it is inactive for singles and ice dance)

Prerequisite: No Prerequisite

Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the Primary Judge Clinic
  • Successful completion of the Primary Judge Exam
  • Successful completion of trial judging exercises (included in clinic)
  • Successful completion of Skate Canada's Code of Ethics Officials online training
  • Successful completion of the Respect in Sport Activity Leader online training

STAR 1-4 Event Assessor

Prerequisite:

  • A skating background, as defined above
  • Successful completion of Skate Canada's Code of Ethics Officials online training

Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the chosen online technical training and exam (Certificate, where applicable)
  • Successful completion of the STAR 1-4 Event Assessor Pre-Course Knowledge Check (Certificate)
  • Successful completion of the in-person//virtual STAR 1-4 Event Assessor Training seminar (verified by the learning facilitator)
  • Successful completion of the Respect in Sport Activity Leader online training
  • Four Successful STAR 1-4 Event Assessor Assessments: STAR 1-4 Event Assessor Assessment Rubrics

Juvenile Sectional Judge (Pairs, Ice Dance and Synchronized Skating)

There is a separate Juvenile sectional judge promotion for each discipline (singles, pairs and ice dance). The following requirements must be completed separately for each discipline.

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to a Juvenile promotion are:

  • Primary/STAR 1-4 judge qualification (may be waived in exceptional cases)
  • A skating background, as defined above

 Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the Juvenile Judge Clinic
  • Two satisfactory reports of trial judging STAR 5 – 8, Pre-Juvenile or Juvenile events in the applicable discipline. At least one of these reports must be at the Juvenile level.
  • Successful completion of the Juvenile Exam in the discipline

Juvenile Singles Judge

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to a Juvenile Singles promotion are:

  • STAR 1-4 judge qualification (may be waived in exceptional cases)
  • A skating background, as defined above

 Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the online Senior Section Level Singles Judge Pre-course
  • Successful completion of the Senior Section Level Singles Judge In-Person Seminar with a recommendation for Juvenile singles judge

Novice Sectional (Pairs and Ice Dance) or Regional (Synchronized Skating) Judge

There is a separate Novice sectional/regional Judge promotion for each discipline (singles, pairs, ice dance and synchronized skating). The following requirements must be completed separately for each discipline.

Pairs and Ice Dance

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to a Novice promotion are:

  • A minimum of Juvenile judge qualification in the discipline
  • A skating background, as defined above

Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the Novice Judge Clinic
  • Two satisfactory reports of judging STAR 5 – 8, Pre-Juvenile or Juvenile events in the applicable discipline. At least one of these reports must be at the Juvenile level.
  • Two satisfactory reports of trial judging reports of complete Pre Novice or Novice events (i.e. short/rhythm and free) in the applicable discipline. At least one of these reports must be at the Novice level. Please note, pre-novice/novice short/rhythm and free segments may be from different events/competitions; however, a total of two short/rhythm and two free segments is required.
    Note: If the candidate is unable to submit a Pre-Novice or Novice trial judge report with at least four skaters/teams, then they are required to complete a video trial judge exercise. This exercise would be conducted with a section proctor who shall complete a trial judge report to be submitted as part of the promotion package.
  • Successful competition of the Novice Exam in the discipline

Synchronized Skating

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to Novice synchronized skating judge promotion are:

  • A skating background, as defined above

Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the Novice Synchronized Clinic
  • Two satisfactory reports of trial judging Pre-Novice, Novice Adult I or Adult II events
  • Successful completion of the Novice synchronized skating judge exam

Junior Regional Synchronized Skating Judge

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to a Junior Synchronized promotion are:

  • A minimum of Novice Synchronized judge qualification
  • A skating background, as defined above

Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the Junior/Senior Synchronized Clinic.
  • Two satisfactory reports of judging of Adult I, Pre-Novice, or Novice events, at least one must be of a Novice event.
    Note: if the candidate is unable to submit a Novice report, then they are required to complete a trial judge report of a Novice event. The trial judging must be completed with a section proctor in attendance and must be assessed as satisfactory. If a trial judge opportunity is not available, then a report of judging of a video Novice event must be completed and must be assessed as satisfactory.
  • Two satisfactory reports of trial judging Intermediate or Junior events (at least one must be of a complete Junior event). Please note, the Junior short and free segments may be from different events/competitions; however, a total of one short and one free segment is required.
    Note: If the candidate is unable to submit a Junior trial judge report with at least 4 teams, then they are required to complete a video trial judge exercise. This exercise would be conducted with a section proctor who shall complete a trial judge report to be submitted as part of the promotion package.
  • Successful completion of the Junior Synchronized Skating Exam

Senior Invitational Level Singles Judge

There are two separate pathways for the Senior invitational promotion based on the prerequisites:

A. Prerequisites

  • Have a STAR 1-4 judge qualification or must have attained a Juvenile singles judge qualification prior to September 1, 2017
  • A skating background, as defined above

Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the online Senior Section Level Singles Judge Pre-Course
  • Successful completion of the Senior Section Level Singles Judge In-Person Seminar with a recommendation for Senior invitational singles judge

B. Prerequisites

  • Attained a Juvenile singles judge qualification after September 1, 2017
  • A skating background, as defined above

Requirements for Application:

  • Judging on panel: Two satisfactory reports of judging STAR 5 to 8, Pre-Juvenile or Juvenile singles events (minimum of six skaters).
  • Trial judging: Three satisfactory reports of trial judging Pre-Novice and higher singles segments (minimum of four skaters). Reports must include one short program, one free program and the third may be a short or a free program.
  • Continuous development: This should be determined by the candidate in consultation with the section and the learning facilitator. Continuous development may include but is not limited to trial judging (video or live), reviewing online training material, completing other online resources, peer study, mentorship or attending any seminars offered by the section, etc.
  • Self assessment: The candidate must complete a self assessment regarding development, competencies and readiness for advancement.
  • Application for promotion: The candidate must apply for promotion to senior invitational level to the section officials committee; application must include satisfactory reports and self assessment.

Senior Sectional (Singles, Pairs and Ice Dance) Level or Regional (Synchronized Skating) Judge

There is a separate Senior sectional/regional judge promotion for each discipline (singles, pairs, ice dance and synchronized skating). The following requirements must be completed separately for each discipline.

Singles

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a Senior Section Level Singles promotion are:

  • Senior invitational singles judge or Novice judge qualification
  • A skating background, as defined above

Requirements for Application:

  1. Judging on panel: Three satisfactory reports of judging STAR 9, 10, Gold or Pre-Novice and higher singles segments (minimum of four skaters). Reports must include one short program, one free program and the third may be a short or a free program.
  2. Continuous development: This should be determined by the candidate in consultation with the section and learning facilitator. Continuous development may include but is not limited to trial judging (video or live), reviewing online training material, completing other online resources, peer study, mentorship or attending any seminars offered by the section, etc.
  3. Self assessment: The candidate must complete a self assessment regarding development, competencies and readiness for advancement.

Evaluation by Skate Canada Assessor: Candidate must apply for promotion to the section officials committee; application must include satisfactory reports of judging and assessment. Application will be reviewed by assessor and if satisfactory candidate will be interviewed by assessor for promotion.

Pairs and Ice Dance

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a Senior promotion are:

  • A minimum of Novice judge qualification in the discipline
  • A skating background, as defined above

Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the Senior Judge Clinic in the discipline.
  • Two satisfactory reports of judging complete Pre-Novice or Novice events (i.e. short/rhythm and free) in the applicable discipline; at least one must be a complete Novice event. Please note, the short/rhythm and free segments may be from difference events/competitions; however, a total of two short/rhythm and two free segments is required.
  • Two satisfactory reports of trial judging of complete Junior or Senior events (i.e. short/rhythm and free) in the applicable discipline. Please note, the short/rhythm and free segments may be from difference events/competitions; however, a total of two short/rhythm and two free segments is required.
    Note: If the candidate is unable to submit a Senior Trial Judge report with at least 4 skaters/teams, then they are required to complete a Video Trial Judge exercise. This exercise would be conducted with a section proctor who shall complete a Trial Judge report to be submitted as part of the promotion package.
  • Successful completion of the Senior Exam in the discipline

Synchronized Skating

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to a Senior synchronized promotion are:

  • A minimum of Junior regional synchronized judge qualification
  • A skating background, as defined above

Requirements for Application:

  • Two satisfactory reports of judging Junior or Intermediate events, at least one must be of a complete Junior event, (i.e. short and free). Please note, the short and free segments may be from different events/competitions; however, at least one junior short and one junior free required.
    Note: if the candidate is unable to submit a junior report, then they are required to complete a trial judge report of a Junior event. The trial judging must be completed with a section proctor in attendance and must be assessed as satisfactory. If a trial judge opportunity is not available, then a report of judging of a video Junior event must be completed and must be assessed as satisfactory.
  • Two satisfactory reports of trial judging Open or Senior events, at least one must be of a complete Senior event (i.e. short and free). Please note, the short and free segments may be from different events/competitions; however, at least one senior short and one senior free required.
    Note: If the candidate is unable to submit a Senior trial judge report with at least 4 teams, then they are required to complete a video trial judge exercise. This exercise would be conducted with a section proctor who shall complete a trial judge report to be submitted as part of the promotion package.
  • Successful completion of the Senior synchronized judge exam

Challenge Judge 

There is a separate Challenge judge promotion for each discipline (singles, pairs and ice dance). The following requirements must be completed separately for each discipline.

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a Challenge judge promotion are:

  • A minimum of Senior judge qualification in the discipline
  • A skating background, as defined above

Requirements for Application:

  • At least two satisfactory reports of judging complete Junior or Senior events (i.e. short/rhythm and free) in the applicable discipline. Please note, the short/rhythm and free segments may be from different events/competitions; however, a total of two short/rhythm and two free segments is required. One report is to be at the Senior level, the other can be either Junior or Senior. A maximum of one report can be based on the assessment of a video event and assessed by a referee with a minimum of Challenge level qualifications in the applicable discipline.

Practical Examination: The Challenge exam shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's technical knowledge, communication skills, deportment and leadership. Successful judging at the Challenge Championships is also a required component of the Practical Examination. Based on the needs of the organization, the Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam, and the format of the exam on an annual basis.

Canadian Judge

There is a separate Canadian judge promotion for each discipline (singles, pairs, ice dance and synchronized skating). The following requirements must be completed separately for each discipline.

Singles, Pairs and Ice Dance

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a Canadian judge promotion are:

  • A minimum of Challenge judge qualification in the discipline
  • A skating background, as defined above

Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee (OAP) Selections:

  • The OAP will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam and the format of the exam on an annual basis. There is no application for this appointment, candidates are selected by the OAP.

Practical Examination: The Canadian Exam shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's technical knowledge, communication skills, deportment and leadership. Successful judging at the Canadian Championships is also a required component of the practical examination.

Synchronized Skating

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to a Canadian synchronized judge promotion are:

  • A minimum of Senior synchronized judge qualification
  • A skating background, as defined above

Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee (OAP) Selections:

  • The OAP will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam and the format of the exam on an annual basis. There is no application for this appointment, candidates are selected by the OAP. 

Practical Examination: The Canadian Exam shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's technical knowledge, communication skills, deportment and leadership. Successful judging at the Canadian Championships is also a required component of the Practical Examination.

International or ISU Judge

For specifications see current ISU regulations

Examination: Written at the Canadian Championships.

Practical Examination: The International Exam shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's technical knowledge, communication skills, deportment and leadership. Successful judging at the Canadian Championships is also a required component of the Practical Examination. Based on the needs of the organization, the Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam, and the format of the exam on an annual basis. 

Requirements for Appointment or Promotion as an Evaluator

There is a separate promotion for Skills, Freeskate, Artistic and Dance. Dance offers two types of promotions: STAR 6-8 and/or STAR 6-Gold. The specific requirements for appointment to become qualified to evaluate are summarized below. Each evaluating status is a pre-requisite to the ones that follow it. Complete details can be found in the relevant training materials. 

In-Training Evaluator

There is only one(1) In-Training Evaluator status. In-Training evaluators are not qualified to assess on their own.

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to an In-Training Evaluator status are:

  • A skating background, as defined above
  • Successful completion of Skate Canada's Code of Ethics Officials online training
  • Successful completion of the STAR 6-Gold Training: Introduction eLearning course

Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the Evaluator Training In-Person Seminar
  • Successful completion of the Respect in Sport for Activity Leaders eLearning course

Trained Evaluator (Skills, Dance, Freeskate and Artistic)

There is a separate Trained Evaluator status for each discipline (Skills, Freeskate, Artistic, and Dance (STAR 6-8 and STAR 9-Gold)). The following requirements must be completed separately for each discipline/promotion. Trained evaluators are not qualified to assess on their own.

Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the online training and exam (Certificate)
  • Successful completion of 3* co-evaluation assessments: Co-Evaluation Rubric(s)

*6 in the Freeskate discipline (3 elements and 3 program)

Qualified Evaluator (Skills, Dance, Freeskate and Artistic)

There is a separate Qualified Evaluator promotion for each discipline (Skills, Freeskate, Dance, Artistic). Dance offers two types of promotions: STAR 6-8 and/or STAR 6-Gold. Qualified Evaluators may evaluate all levels in the discipline of their qualification.

Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the Mentored Assessment*: Mentored Assessment Rubric
    *In at least one discipline

Diamond Dance Evaluator

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to a Diamond Dance promotion are:

  • A minimum of Qualified Gold Evaluator qualification in Dance

Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the Diamond Dance Clinic
  • Record of trial evaluating (actual or video)
  • One supervised trial evaluating session including a selection of Diamond Dance Tests

Requirements for Appointment or Promotion as a Skills Coach Assessor

The specific requirements for appointment for coaches to assess skaters in STAR 6-Gold Skills are summarized below. Complete details can be found in the relevant training materials.

Qualified Skills Coach Assessor

Qualified Skills Coach Assessors may evaluate all levels of the Skills discipline only.

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to become a Qualified Coach Assessor are:

  • Registered and in Good Standing Coach
  • NCCP Regional Coach Certified or higher NCCP status
  • STAR 1-5 Coach Assessor Training (certificate)

Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the online training: STAR 6-Gold Training: Introduction (certificate)
  • Successful completion of the online training exam: STAR 6-Gold Training: Skills (certificate)

Note: Candidates to check with their section for any additional requirements.

Requirements for Appointment or Promotion as a Referee

Invitational Referee (Singles, Pairs and Ice Dance, Synchronized skating)

There is a separate referee promotion for each discipline (singles, pairs, ice dance, synchronized skating). The following requirements must be completed separately for each discipline.

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining an invitational referee promotion are:

  • A minimum of Juvenile judge qualification in the discipline
  • A skating background, as defined above

Requirements for Application:

  • Successful completion of the online training and exam.
  • Two successful Referee Assessments: Invitational Referee Assessment Rubrics

Section (Singles, Pairs and Ice Dance) or Regional (Synchronized Skating) Referee

There is a separate sectional/regional referee promotion for each discipline (singles, pairs, ice dance and synchronized skating). The following requirements must be completed separately for each discipline.

Singles, Pairs, Ice Dance and Synchronized Skating

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a sectional referee promotion are:

  • A minimum of Senior Section Level judge qualification in the discipline
  • Invitational Referee promotion in the discipline
  • Invitational Referee experience: Minimum 2 different invitational competitions
  • A skating background, as defined above

Requirements for Application:

  • Documentation of invitational referee experience: Minimum of two different invitational competitions.
  • Documentation of continuous development: Minimum of two activities.
  • Two satisfactory reports written for judge(s) on panel.
  • Successful Section Referee Assessment: Two Section Referee Assessment Rubrics.

Challenge (Singles, Pairs and Ice Dance)

There is a separate Challenge referee promotion for each discipline (singles, pairs, ice dance). The following requirements must be completed separately for each discipline. However, a candidate may apply to combine a singles and pairs referee promotion, and complete the exam process at one Challenge Championship.

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a Challenge referee promotion are:

  • A minimum of Challenge judge qualification in the discipline for two years
  • A skating background, as defined above

Requirements for Application:

  • Completion of the National Referee Clinic (if available).
  • Satisfactory refereeing of at least two sectional events, with at least one being junior or senior in the respective discipline
  • Copies of two reports written by the referee candidate, for judge(s) on panel

Practical Examination: The Challenge Referee Exam shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's pre-event, event and post-event management skills. This will encompass an evaluation of their technical knowledge, communication skills, report writing skills, situational refereeing skills as well as their deportment and leadership. Based on the needs of the organization, the Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam, and the format of the exam on an annual basis.

Canadian Referee 

There is a separate Canadian referee promotion for each discipline (singles, pairs, ice dance and synchronized skating). The following requirements must be completed separately for each discipline. However, a candidate may apply to combine a singles and pairs referee promotion and complete the exam process at one Canadian Championship.

Singles, Pairs and Ice Dance

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a Canadian referee promotion are:

  • A minimum of Canadian judge qualification in the discipline for three years
  • A skating background, as defined above
  • Challenge referee qualification in the discipline for 24 months

Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee (OAP) Selections:

  • The OAP will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam and the format of the exam on an annual basis. There is no application for this appointment, candidates are selected by the OAP.

Practical Examination: The Canadian Referee Exam shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's pre-event, event and post-event management skills. This will encompass an evaluation of their technical knowledge, communication skills, report writing skills, situational refereeing skills as well as their deportment and leadership.

Synchronized Skating

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a Canadian synchronized skating referee promotion are:

  • A minimum of Canadian synchronized judge qualification for three years
  • A skating background, as defined above

Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee (OAP) Selections:

  • The OAP will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam and the format of the exam on an annual basis. There is no application for this appointment, candidates are selected by the OAP.

Practical Examination: The Canadian Referee Exam shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's pre-event, event and post-event management skills. This will encompass an evaluation of their technical knowledge, communication skills, report writing skills, situational refereeing skills as well as their deportment and leadership. Based on the needs of the organization, the Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam, and the format of the exam on an annual basis.

International or ISU Referee

For specifications see current ISU regulations.    

Examination: Written at the Canadian Championships.

Practical Examination: The International Exam shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's technical knowledge, communication skills, deportment and leadership. Successful refereeing at the Canadian Championships is also a required component of the Practical Examination. Based on the needs of the organization, the Officials’ Assignment and Promotion Committee will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam, and the format of the exam on an annual basis.

Requirements for Appointment or Promotion as a Base Level Technical Official (Singles)

Prerequisite:

  • Skating background, as defined above
    Note: based on an analysis of their needs and at the discretion of the section, this prerequisite may be waived
  • Successful completion of Skate Canada's Code of Ethics Officials online training
  • Successful completion of the Respect in Sport Activity Leader online training

Clinic: Successful completion of a base level technical official clinic

Examination: Examination is comprised of two phases.

  • Phase I:
    • Written examination comprised of assessment of technical knowledge and element identification
    • Video exam, simulating actual panel process
  • Phase II:
    • Mentorship and practical examination on panel at events

Requirements for Appointment or Promotion as a Technical Controller

Sectional (Singles, Pairs and Ice Dance) or Regional (Synchronized Skating)Technical Controller

There is a separate sectional/regional technical controller appointment for each discipline (singles, pairs, ice dance and synchronized skating).

 Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a section/region technical controller appointment are:

  • Skating background, as defined above
  • It is recommended but not required that candidates should have Section/Region level referee qualifications in the discipline associated with initial appointment to Sectional/Regional Technical Controller
  • Technical specialists can apply for training as a controller in the discipline in which they are already qualified as a specialist
  • Successful completion of Skate Canada's Code of Ethics Officials online training
  • Successful completion of the Respect in Sport Activity Leader online training

Clinic: Successful completion of the National Technical Panel clinic

Examination: Examination is comprised of two phases.

  • Phase I:
    • Written examination comprised of assessment of technical knowledge and element identification
    • Video exam, simulating actual panel process
  • Phase II:
    • Mentorship and practical examination on panel at Section Level Invitational events (note: synchronized skating phase II assessment can occur at Regional competition in non-qualifying events).

Challenge Technical Controller 

There is a separate Challenge Technical Controller promotion for each discipline (singles, pairs, and ice dance).

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a Challenge technical controller promotion are:

  • Section technical controller qualification in the discipline
  • Skating background, as defined above
  • Satisfactory activity as a controller for at least two sectional events, with at least one being junior or senior in the respective discipline.

Examination: Shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's technical knowledge, communication skills, deportment and leadership. Based on the needs of the organization, the Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee will determine the necessity, and approve the format of the exam on an annual basis.

Canadian Technical Controller 

There is a separate Canadian technical controller promotion for each discipline (singles, pairs, ice dance and synchronized skating).

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a Canadian technical controller promotion are:

  • Challenge (singles, pairs and dance) or Regional (synchronized skating) technical controller qualification in the discipline for a minimum of 24 months
  • Skating background, as defined above
  • Satisfactory activity as a Controller for least two Challenge/Regional events in the discipline

Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee (OAP) Selections:

  • The OAP will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam and the format of the exam on an annual basis. There is no application for this appointment, candidates are selected by the OAP.

Examination: Shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's technical knowledge, communication skills, deportment and leadership.

International or ISU Technical Controller

For specifications see current ISU regulations.    

Examination: Written at the Canadian Championships.

Practical Examination: The International Exam shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's technical knowledge, communication skills, deportment and leadership. Successfully serving as a technical controller at the Canadian Championships is also a required component of the Practical Examination. Based on the needs of the organization, the Officials’ Assignment and Promotion Committee will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam, and the format of the exam on an annual basis.

Requirements for Appointment or Promotion as a Technical Specialist 

Sectional (Singles, Pairs and Ice Dance) or Regional (Synchronized Skating) Technical Specialist 

There is a separate section/region technical specialist appointment for each discipline (singles, pairs, ice dance and synchronized skating).

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a section/region technical specialist appointment are:

  • Skating background, as defined above
  • It is recommended but not required that candidates should have experience as either a skater, coach, judge, referee or technical controller at the section/region level.
  • Successful completion of Skate Canada's Code of Ethics Officials online training
  • Successful completion of the Respect in Sport Activity Leader online training

Clinic: Successful completion of the National Technical Panel clinic

Examination: Examination is comprised of two phases.

  • Phase I:
    • Written examination comprised of assessment of technical knowledge and element identification
    • Video exam, simulating actual panel process
  • Phase II:
    • Mentorship and practical examination on panel at Invitational events (note: synchronized skating phase II assessment can occur at Regional competition in non-qualifying events).

Challenge Technical Specialist 

There is a separate Challenge technical specialist promotion for each discipline (singles, pairs, and ice dance).

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a Challenge technical specialist promotion are:

  • Section technical specialist qualification in the discipline
  • Skating background, as defined above
  • Satisfactory activity as a specialist for a least two sectional events, with at least one being junior or senior in a respective discipline.

Examination: Shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's technical knowledge, communication skills, deportment and leadership. Based on the needs of the organization, the Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam, and necessity, and approve the format of the exam on an annual basis.

Canadian Technical Specialist 

There is a separate Canadian technical specialist promotion for each discipline (singles, pairs, ice dance and synchronized skating).

Prerequisite:

  • Challenge (singles, pairs, and dance) or Regional (synchronized skating) technical specialist qualification in the discipline for a minimum of 24 months
  • Skating background, as defined above
  • Satisfactory activity as a specialist for at least two Challenge/regional events in the discipline

Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee (OAP) Selections:

  • The OAP will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam and the format of the exam on an annual basis. There is no application for this appointment, candidates are selected by the OAP.

 

Examination: Shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's technical knowledge, communication skills, deportment and leadership.

International or ISU Technical Specialist 

For specifications see current ISU regulations.  

Examination: Written at the Canadian Championships 

Practical Examination: The International Exam shall include (as a minimum) assessment of the candidate's technical knowledge, communication skills, deportment and leadership. Successfully serving as a technical specialist at the Canadian Championships is also a required component of the Practical Examination. Based on the needs of the organization, the Officials’ Assignment and Promotion Committee will determine the number of candidates that will take this exam, and the format of the exam on an annual basis.

Requirements for Appointment as a Phase II Technical Panel Assessor

There is a separate Phase II Technical Panel Assessor appointment required for each discipline (BLTO, singles, pairs, ice dance and synchronized skating) and each position (technical controller or technical specialist).

Prerequisite: The prerequisites to obtaining a Phase II Technical Panel Assessor's appointment are:

  • Minimum section level qualification in the position of application (technical controller or technical specialist) in the respective discipline.
  • Skating background, as defined above
  • Satisfactory activity as a controller/specialist for at least two consecutive seasons in the respective discipline.

Criteria of assessment for Phase II Technical Assessor appointment: 

  • Technical knowledge, communication, deportment and leadership skills of applicant 
  • The section will determine the number of candidates that will be appointed based on their needs

Requirements for Appointment or Promotion as a Data Specialist

Please note, a new clinic and new assessment is required for each promotion being sought.

Introductory Data Specialist

For designation as an introductory data specialist each candidate must:

  • Be at lease sixteen years of age by the time of appointment
  • Attend a mandatory introductory training session as set out by the Section Data Specialists Committee
  • Successfully assist at a minimum of two competitions with satisfactory assessments from the Chief Data Specialist (or alternate)
  • Be approved by the section data specialists committee
  • Have completed Skate Canada's Code of Ethics Officials online training
  • Have completed the Respect in Sport Activity Leader online training

Level I Data Specialist

To receive promotion to level I data specialist each candidate must:

  • Be an introductory data specialist
  • Successfully assist at a minimum of two competitions with satisfactory assessments from the chief data specialist (or alternate)
  • Attend a section clinic which includes instruction on computer applications, with satisfactory assessments
  • Successfully complete the Level I Data Specialist Workbook including the supplementary workbook questions
  • Be approved by the section data specialists committee

Level II Data Specialist

To receive promotion to a level II data specialist each candidate must:

  • Be a qualified level I data specialist for at least one year
  • Demonstrate consistent satisfactory performance as a level I data specialist
  • Attend two section clinics, that include instruction on computer applications, with satisfactory assessments; assessments should be included in application package
  • Serve satisfactorily as a “chief or co-chief data specialist” in at least two sanctioned competitions, one of which must include combined segments (i.e. short/rhythm and free); therefore, a total of three assessments is required
  • Serve satisfactorily as a “computer data specialist” in at least one sanctioned competition under observation of an experienced data specialist
  • Successfully complete the Level II Data Specialist Workbook and Exam
  • Be approved for promotion by the section data specialist committee.

Level III Data Specialist 

To receive promotion to a level III data specialist each candidate must:

  • Be a qualified level II data Specialist for at least one year.
  • Demonstrate consistent satisfactory performance as a level II data specialist
  • Serve satisfactorily as a “chief or co-chief data specialist” in at least two sanctioned competitions, one of which must include combined segments (i.e. short/rhythm and free) therefore, a total of 3 assessments is required
  • Serve satisfactorily as a “computer data specialist” in at least one sanctioned competition
  • Be recommended for promotion by the section data specialist committee
  • Be approved by the Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee to sit for practical examination at the Skate Canada Challenge. The Officials Assignment and Promotion Committee approves the format of the exam on an annual basis.

Appendix - Assessment Forms

Judge Assessment Forms (Word documents for download)

These forms are to be used by trial judges and judges on panel who require a report. The reflections form should be completed by the trial judge or judge on panel and shared with the report writer or assessor.

Detailed Assessment of Judging Performance - All Disciplines

Reflections for Trial Judge & Judge on Panel

Technical Panel Phase II Assessment Forms (Word documents for download)

BLTO Phase II Assessment Form 

TC Phase II Assessment Form - Ice Dance

TC Phase II Assessment Form - Pairs

TC Phase II Assessment Form - Singles

TC Phase II Assessment Form - Synchro

TS Phase II Assessment Form - Ice Dance

TS Phase II Assessment Form - Pairs

TS Phase II Assessment Form - Singles

TS Phase II Assessment Form - Synchro