I already have a coach at another rink. Can I still come skate at The Pond?

Absolutely! No matter where your home rink is, we have many different programs that interested skaters are always welcome to take advantage of. We call these OPEN SKATE opportunities.

We have our weekly group class offerings. Group classes in specialty areas such as Power/Edges, Agility on Ice, Spirals/Extension, Transitional Tricks, Program Components (and many, many more) are typically held Saturday afternoons between 3-5pm. Smaller group classes are also offered on weekdays. Contact us to get more scheduling info.

Several times throughout the year we also have special event offerings that Academy and non-Academy students participate in together. These include Guest Coach Series seminars, Camps, and Skill Intensives. Keep an eye on the “Open Skate” tab of the website, follow us on social media - Instagram (@mesa.ice) and Facebook (www.fb.com/mclaughlin.academy) - or contact us to be added to our mailing list and be the first to hear when these are announced.

We also have opportunities to skate at The Pond without any formal instruction through the Academy. Anyone can come skate during our Open Freestyle, adult skating (Coffee Club), and young adult/teen skating (YAS!) times. These sessions are all practice-only, with no lessons required. Advanced registration required, visit the “Open Skate” tab to register.

“Elite” Academy sounds pretty intense. Do you take beginners and/or non-competitive skaters?

Yes! McLaughlin Elite Skating Academy is open to skaters of all levels and all ages. We recognize that not every skater strives to compete at the highest levels but every skater still deserves to have a solid foundation in the fundamentals of skating to allow them to achieve their own personal goals in the sport, whether hobby, recreational or competitive. Our highly experienced and accomplished coaching team is committed to providing you with elite-level training for wherever your love for skating takes you!

You have so many coaches, how do I choose which one to take lessons with?

The good news is, you do not have to choose! If you have a preference, by all means, let us know but our coaches work together to provide a holistic approach in the development of our skaters.

I’ve never skated. Before I invest in my own skates, do you have rental skates?

Yes, we have rental skates in all sizes from toddler to men’s. The cost for rentals is only $5.

Do I have to leave my home rink or skating Club to join MESA or skate at The Pond?

Of course not! Neither The Pond nor the Academy requires skaters to make an exclusive commitment. Your skating journey is your own; we would love to be a part of it!

How can I get help on a specific skill/move/test that I am working on?

At MESA, we have multiple coaches -- some for jumps, some for moves in the field, some for private lessons. Our coaching staff works collaboratively to identify and meet the needs of each individual skater. Contact us with your specific needs and we can create a lesson plan to help achieve your skating goals.

I’m interested in training for competitions. Where do I start?

We train competitors of all ages and levels. Learn more about our competitive team, K*Squad, here or contact us to get more info on how to join.