Northern Blades National Sports Center Figure Skating Club (NBNSC FSC)

The Northern Blades National Sports Center Figure Skating Club (NBNSC FSC) is a nonprofit figure skating club based in Blaine, Minnesota. Established in the fall of 1996 as the White Bear Lake Figure Skating Club, it was initially granted interim probationary status by the United States Figure Skating Association (USFSA) in April 1997. Full club status was achieved in October of the same year. The club's name was officially changed to Northern Blades Figure Skating Club in 1998. In 2000, the club relocated to the Super Rink at the National Sports Center and adopted its current name, indicating its association with this prominent facility.

Purpose and Activities

The primary mission of NBNSC FSC is to promote amateur figure skating, foster a community of skaters with positive attitudes and good sportsmanship, and uphold the principles outlined by the USFSA. The club supports both competitive and recreational skating, offering a range of programs for skaters of all skill levels. Activities include participation in the National Sports Center Annual Ice Show, hosting competitions like "Rising Stars," and organizing social events such as summer parties and ice cream socials.

Membership and Governance

The club is managed by a parent-led board and currently consists of approximately 75 skater members, 14 collegiate members, 2 alumni members, 10 home club coaches, and 1 associate club coach. It maintains an affiliation with the USFSA and participates in the Twin Cities Figure Skating Association, which coordinates activities among local figure skating clubs.

Home Rink

The Super Rink at the National Sports Center serves as the club's home facility. This ice complex includes eight sheets of ice, featuring four Olympic-sized and four NHL-sized rinks. The Super Rink is renowned for its modern facilities and diverse skating opportunities, offering daily ice availability for training and practice. Skaters also benefit from innovative tools like the Jumpease Ice Harness system.

Annual Events

Northern Blades NSC FSC actively participates in various figure skating events throughout the year. One of its signature events is the "Rising Stars" competition, which provides a platform for skaters to showcase their skills. Additionally, the club supports annual events like exhibitions, clinics, and seminars to enhance skaters' skills and foster community engagement.

Notable Partnerships

The club collaborates closely with the National Sports Center Skating School, which offers comprehensive programs ranging from beginner sessions to advanced figure skating classes. This partnership ensures that skaters have access to high-quality coaching and training facilities, supporting their development in the sport.