The following information was extracted from the unlinked files on the official USAC/RS Home Page - since it was not available to the Web user, this site will post it until such time as the information becomes available from USAC/RS
Every solid business has diversified sources of income. In the case of skating centers, this may include private parties, game machines, snack bar sales, skate sales, and locker rentals. A successful artistic club can be viewed as just another contribution to an operation s bottom line. But it also can be so much more.
The foundation for success begins when a club s members have access to a suitable facility, have the guidance of qualified instructors, and are allowed a specified amount of time for practice. What a club s members will often give in return is their loyalty, business, and a dedication to their craft that will make them the facility s best public relations tool. The result can be expanded facility use, increased revenues, positive public and media attention, and improved session attendance and retention.
Facility down time can take on a whole new appearance when an artistic club is built on a solid class structure. Artistic skaters, like other devoted athletes, willingly accept a broader range of available times then the average customer. In essence, it s like hosting a private party every night they show up for practices, classes and meets. But don t forget that they re paying for the privilege of using the facility, meaning they deserve the same respect that any other paying customer would expect - consistent service and fair prices.
Artistic skaters are proud of their sport and their accomplishments, often encouraging others to get involved in the fun. Artistic skaters themselves will serve as the club s own best advertising to build the program and attract other skaters.
Club members also pay for classes and private lessons, in addition to their monthly club dues. Monthly dues vary, but a club with 100 members charging $30 a month generates a gross income of $36,000 a year. And that doesn t include the money generated at the snack bar or through increased sales of quality skates and wheels.
Meets and exhibitions are another income- producing opportunity. These events often draw an enthusiastic response from people willing to pay admission to enjoy the grace and beauty of an artistic program. The events also go a long way in promoting a public perception that the skating facility is a safe and fun recreational facility. And even if skaters go to meets and exhibitions outside of their host facility, the desire to win will encourage them to buy even more practice time and private lessons through their home artistic program.
An active artistic club also can be used to draw the attention of the local media. It s hard for newspapers and television stations to ignore the photographic possibilities of an artistic skating meet or exhibition. Cooperating with the media can also help assure that the results will be part of the local sports coverage. Skaters who have gone on to nationals and world competition have even broader exposure in a wide variety of media outlets, from national magazines and newspapers to television coverage. Sponsorships are another way to supplement a competitive program, which can include helping to offset travel expenses, the cost of outfits, equipment purchases and entry fees.
In addition to the terrific financial and promotional returns a club can provide for a small investment of time, it gives the host facility the rewarding opportunity to work with dedicated athletes for the advancement of the sport of roller skating. The bottom line is that in order for roller skating to continue to grow, it needs to also grow as a sport.