Effective and consistent communication with a skater’s
parents is another way for coaches to be a skater’s health advocate. By getting to know their skaters’ parents, a coach will feel more comfortable sharing their concerns should a skater’s health become an issue (and vice versa). If there ever comes a time when a coach feels that a skater is not healthy enough to skate, they should end the session immediately and consult with the skater and parents as soon as possible. Coaches can prepare themselves for a conversation like this by gathering resources and information (on eating disorders, mental health and nutrition) to distribute to parents.
Share with Skaters Make sure your skaters are aware that optimal performance requires a strong and nourished body. Making smart food choices and refraining from training too hard keeps the body energized, well-rested and ready to perform. Just as important is a skater’s mental mindset. Holding oneself to unreachable standards will ultimately lead to feelings of frustration and disappointment. Instruct your skaters to strive to enter and leave the rink with a positive mindset even if they have had a tough practice session. Encourage skaters to join and support the rink’s community
of skaters and coaches. Developing a relationship with a coach or someone else at the arena gives a skater someone to turn to if they’re concerned about their physical and mental well-being.
Coaches and arena staff can help add to a rink’s friendly environment by establishing an open communication standard. Easy access to coaches and arena staff allows skaters
and parents to bring up questions or concerns they might have.
On the flip side, skaters can be there for one another, too. If a skater feels that one of their peers is struggling, they should not feel hesitant to speak up about their concerns.
Article submitted by The Emily Program. Since 1993, The Emily Program’s experienced multidisciplinary staff has provided exceptional care and effective treatment for individuals struggling with eating disorders and related issues, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, compulsive overeating, binge eating disorder, compulsive exercise and related mental health concerns. Facilities are located in Minnesota, Washington, Ohio and Pennsylvania. For information, visit
emilyprogram.com.
ISI EDGE SPRING 2016
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