Following these steps will help you make the switch to a new head coach (main coach) and still maintain a comfortable relationship within the rink.

Parents:

1. Contact your current head coach and express your reasons for wanting to switch to another head coach. There may be a way to correct the situation and the need to switch could be resolved before a change is necessary.

2. Make sure that you have paid your account balance in full with your current head coach.

3. Discuss this change with your child. Make sure that the skater is comfortable with the changes you are about to make.

Future Head Coach:

1. Direct the client to first make contact with the former head coach.

2. When this has been done, contact the current head coach. Make sure there is no possible resolution to the situation.

3. Confirm that all outstanding balances are paid in full with the current head coach prior to scheduling any lessons. NO lessons should be given prior to receiving confirmation of account status. There are often exceptions and discrepancies. These need to be handled on a case by case basis.

4. Respect what the former head coach has done for the skater. If technique or philosophy changes need to be made, do so without degrading the former head coach's method.

5. Support your fellow coaches. Aim to keep a happy, positive and encouraging environment within the rink.

Skaters:

1. Switching head coaches, if the above procedures are followed, should not affect the skater's relationship with other skaters.

2. Do not isolate or make an outcast of a skater who has switched from your head coach to another head coach.

3. Do not encourage others to switch from their current head coach.

4. Treat all skaters with equal respect.

5. While on the ice everyone must follow the same rules.