ISU Controls TV Skating Shows

Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy Sep 5, 2006

Communication No. 1416 declares that an event must be sanctioned by the International Skating Union in order for its listed members to suffer no repercussions for participating in celebrity skating television shows.

In order to qualify for sanction, an event must use the ISU judging system and its officials, pay membership dues, and follow rules set forth by the union.

Many favorite skaters have determined that they are in the clear since the show is pitched to advertisers as "entertainment" and not "competition." The ISU clarifies: "If any such program involves: (i) judging of any kind, AND (ii) international participation by skaters (whether eligible or ineligible) and/or officials from at least 2 ISU Members/countries, the program" requires a sanction.

What does this really mean to the people who work at the show? If a professional skater, like Peggy Fleming or Scott Hamilton, meaning even those who have retired from eligible competition, participates in a non-ISU sanctioned skating event that presents judging of any kind in any way, they may lose their ability forever to officiate in any way at Europeans, Worlds, or the Olympics.

The popularity of our sport increases as its visibility does. Celebrity skating shows positively promote interest in skating, and gain attention when the biggest names show up for rehearsal.

The ISU seems to be shooting itself in the foot with this one. More interest, after all, means more members, which equals more funding coming in for the union.

Whichever offers the highest potential (long-term) paycheck, ISU coaching & judging verses celebrity skating "competitions," will gain the allegiance of the figure skating star.

Forcing skaters to choose sides is less-than-productive mandate.