Ratings | Cheryl Faust

Never Stop Learning

Happy Spring! In life and in skating you should never stop learning. What better way to solidify your coaching career than by investing in yourself? As coaches we give of ourselves everyday...even when there is no more to give. It is important to have a tribe of support to uplift, encourage, acknowledge, share ideas and most importantly laugh with!

Membership has its privileges! Having your PSA membership opens the door not only to education and updated information, but networking with master coaches. As a PSA member, the directory is your personal resource to coaches all over the country who are willing to share their knowledge with you. If you would like guidance to connect with a master coach, please feel free to contact me directly.

Another great privilege is the benefit of this magazine where we are continuing to bring you sample oral rating questions. These questions should not only help your ratings preparation, but provoke thought to help you advance in your coaching.

Here is a sample question from the Certified Program Director exam:

Q: Do you have a set procedure for staff discipline? If so, explain.

Sample Answer: Answers may vary; Key words/phrases:

• Document

• Meeting

• Warning

• Employee file

• Signatures

• Positive reinforcement

Here is a sample question from the Registered Choreography exam:

Q: As a choreographer, what techniques do you use to improve stroking?

Sample Answer: At these developmental levels it is imperative that an athlete develop excellent skating skills, stroking being the foundation of these skills. As a choreographer, I work on upper body posture, use of correct edges, leg stretch and extension, ankle and knee bend to develop power, as well as arm positions and correct alignment.

Remember that the Ratings Study Guides are free online which help give you the full overview of the oral ratings process and questions asked. Consider them your “Cliff Notes” of ratings.

I am always available and am here to help guide you in your ratings journey. I welcome any and all feedback!