Coach & Skater Relationship
Official Governing Body Rules & Etiquette
Upon choosing a coach, you are officially considered their student. To maintain a respectful and professional training environment, coaches must adhere to a strict code of professional ethics. U.S. Figure Skating and PSA etiquette and professionalism must be strictly followed by both the student and parent if you choose to change coaches or desire to add an additional coach to your training team. The mandatory professional etiquette is as follows:
​Coach-Student Professional Ethics
Coach-Student Professional Ethics
Defining the Coaching Relationship
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Primary Coach Designation: Once you begin private lessons with Coach Annalisa, she is considered your only coach.
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Employing a Second Coach: If you wish to add a secondary coach to your training team for a specific discipline (such as choreography, spin technique, or power skating), you must follow the steps outlined at the bottom of this page before booking.
PSA Rules on Solicitation & Multiple Coaches
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What to Do: If another coach approaches you or offers you a lesson while you are actively taking private lessons with me, you are expected to inform them right away:
"I am currently taking private lessons from Coach Annalisa."
Switching Coaches or Exploring Other Options
Exploring Your Options ("Shopping Around")
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Prioritize the Right Fit: It is entirely normal and acceptable to look for a coach who best fits your skating style, goals, and personality.
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Transparency is Key: If you would like to experiment or take a trial lesson with other coaches, please establish this with Coach Annalisa first. Simply explain that you are looking for the right fit. Full honesty and transparency with both coaches are required to maintain a professional and positive environment at the rink.
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Steps to Formally Switch Coaches
1. Initiate an Open Conversation
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Discuss Your Needs: Speak directly with Coach Annalisa about your desire to switch and the reasons behind it. This allows an opportunity to address any concerns or miscommunications.
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Consider a Team Approach: In many cases, it may be beneficial to add a secondary coach to your training team for specialized skills rather than ending the relationship entirely.
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Concluding the Relationship: If a mutual agreement cannot be reached, the coach-student relationship will draw to a close.
2. Settle Your Account & Contact the New Coach
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Financial Clearance: All outstanding balances, invoices, and fees must be paid in full before you are permitted to begin lessons with a new coach.
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Establish the New Partnership: Once your account is cleared and notice has been given, you may formally contact and begin scheduled lessons with your new coach. Maintaining a respectful transition protects your reputation within the rink community.
3. Maintain Professional Sportsmanship
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Maintain Courtesy: Professional skating communities are close-knit. Always display high sportsmanship. Ice rinks are small communities; disparaging or talking negatively about previous coaches, choreographers, or fellow skaters is strictly unprofessional and will not be tolerated.