Martha's Vineyard Figure Skating Club

Overview
The Martha's Vineyard Figure Skating Club (MVFSC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting figure skating on Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. Founded in the mid-1980s, the club has since developed a reputation for nurturing young skaters and hosting a variety of programs catering to different skill levels.

History
The MVFSC was established in the mid-1980s by Molly Finkelstein and Pam Glavin, aimed at providing local children with opportunities to learn figure skating[5]. The club celebrated its 30th anniversary in April 2018, marking three decades of engagement with the community through skating events and programs. The organization began its journey with its first ice show in 1988, which has since become a cherished tradition in Martha's Vineyard.

Programs and Structure
MVFSC offers a range of programs designed for skaters of all ages and skill levels, including:

• Tots Program: An introductory program for children aged 3 to 6, focusing on basic skating skills in a group setting.

• Learn to Skate: A group instruction program for children aged 5 and up, which emphasizes foundational skating techniques suitable for both figure and hockey skating.

• Bridge Program: A preparatory program for skaters transitioning into the more intensive Freestyle Program. It concentrates on cultivating advanced skills like spins, jumps, and footwork.

• Freestyle Program: Designed for dedicated skaters who wish to compete and participate in U.S. Figure Skating testing. Participants in this program often take private lessons and are encouraged to engage in competitions.

The MVFSC has experienced consistent growth, with hundreds of children enrolling annually across its various programs. This includes approximately 65 participants in the Learn to Skate program and around 10 dedicated skaters in the Freestyle Program[2][3].

Community Engagement and Events
The club is active in the local community, hosting performances and competitions that showcase the talents of its skaters. In addition to annual ice shows, such as the "Live, Love, Skate" production, the MVFSC regularly organizes events to foster community spirit and support local skating talent[3]. Notably, the Vineyard Cup is an upcoming competition expected to attract over 100 participants from various regions, highlighting both local and regional skating excellence[4].

Leadership
Jane Taylor, who has been with the club since 2004, serves as the full-time coach and president. Under her leadership, the club has continued to grow in both size and reputation, emphasizing the importance of dedication and passion in the sport[2][3].

Conclusion
The Martha's Vineyard Figure Skating Club remains a pillar of the local community, enriching the lives of youth through the sport of figure skating. Through its diverse programs and community-focused events, MVFSC provides valuable opportunities for skaters to develop their skills, showcase their talents, and foster a lifelong love of skating.

[1] https://www.ymcamv.org/mv-ice-arena [2] https://www.mvtimes.com/2018/04/11/mv-figure-skating-club-turns-30/ [3] http://www.mvyouth.com/arena [4] http://www.mvyouth.com/arena/2024/3/13/mv-arena [5] https://www.mvtimes.com/2022/02/22/on-the-ice/