About Us

KIDS' QUESTIONS

January 2005

Kids' Questions with Judy Blumberg

She's a five-time U.S. ice dancing champion and three-time World ice dancing medalist. She's also a trained technical specialist for the new ISU judging system, a coach and an ensemble director for the Ice Theatre of New York. Somehow, Judy Blumberg managed to take a little time out of her busy schedule to answer a few questions from our readers.

Q: In your opinion, is the new judging system more efficient than the “old” 6.0 system as far as preventing dishonesty in judging? And, how should juvenile and intermediate skaters start preparing for the new judging system?
Kelly Rogers, 14, Arvada, Colo, Kiara Abtin, 12, Vancouver, Wash.

A: It's too soon to make any real judgment, but having experts identify the elements, it prevents many problems that happen when judges miss or don't know what the element is. Some judges, however, are so used to the old system that they are unsure of themselves in this new one. It will take some time to get everyone on the same page. Skaters on the juvenile and intermediate level would benefit by starting to develop the other aspects of their skating, such as interesting spins, transitions, footwork, musicality and choreography.

Q: What is involved in your job as a technical specialist for the new ISU judging system?
Garrett Kling, 14, Watertown, Minn.

A: As a technical specialist for dance, I am required to identify the required elements in the original dance and free dance and give these elements, such as lifts, spins, twizzles and footwork, a particular level based on specific criteria that is prescribed by the ISU. I have to watch the performances with a very keen eye and tremendous concentration.

Q: What do you think of Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto?
Laura, Chicago, Ill.

A: Tanith and Ben continue to put out superior material each and every season. They are certain to be on the (World) podium very soon, and I really enjoy and appreciate their performances and skating ability.

Q: Could you please provide suggestions for finding a dance partner? Would you consider looking off-ice, in other sports? If so, what sports or activities would you consider?
Victoria Craw, 12, and Heather Robinson, 16

A: Finding an ice dancing partner is not an easy thing. Sometimes just looking at the freestyle sessions and finding a skater who works hard and is willing to take a risk by trying ice dancing is all it takes. If you don't ask, you don't get! But when you do find someone with whom you have chemistry, even though the skating might not be up to your expectations, hang on to them. Some skaters have had great success finding a partner by looking in the ballroom dance field. Good luck!

Q: What should I learn next? I have mastered the double Salchow and find the flip the easiest jump. Should I start working on the double flip or the double toe?
Juliet C., 7, Los Angeles, Calif.

A: Sounds like you are improving quickly, Juliet! Your flip may be an easy jump, but only with your coaches' expertise and approval should you go ahead and work on the double flip. However, don't forget about the toe and the loop because they are the most frequently used jumps in combinations.

Q: I passed my intermediate moves and have tested my novice moves once. Do you know any ways to improve my posture? It is very important to me that I pass these moves.
Adrienne Fischer, 15, Glens Falls

A: Don't worry Adrienne, you will pass these moves. While posture is very important in skating, so is presentation and really getting into your knees and feet. Have someone videotape your skating, and by just being a bit more aware of how you are moving, your posture and general presence will most certainly improve.

Q: Hi, I'm 13 years old and I'm interested in figure skating. I have always wanted to participate in the sport and now I have a chance to, but am I too old?
Elizabeth English, 13, Louisville, Ky.

A: Don't let anyone tell you that you are too old, Elizabeth! I didn't start ice dancing until I was almost 19 years old. Anything is possible when you love what you are doing and you have the desire to work hard and be a good listener. Timing is a very funny thing. Sometimes you just have to believe in fate.

Q: What is it like to be a professional figure skater? Do you always like who you're paired with? Do you ever have time just to “hang out?”
Naomi Scoville, 13, Cuba

A: It is incredible to be a professional figure skater. You get to work and play at something you are passionate about. When you skate in a show, you end up skating with all different kinds of skaters and it makes the experience a great deal of fun. We would all “hang out” on the tour bus rides and after the show.

Q: How long did it take you to pass all your compulsory dance tests? And how old were you when you started dance? Were you a freestyle skater before starting dance?
Jordyn M., 16, Louisville, Ky.

A: It took me a couple of years to pass all of my dance tests because I competed first at the junior level and then moved up to the championship level. I started dance when I was about 19 years old! Can you believe it? I was a gold medalist in figures and freestyle before I ever started to dance.