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In September 2008, Rupinskas took some initiative. She obtained the e-mail addresses of adults enrolled in skating classes throughout the city, and the Stars Figure Skating Club also gave her contact information.
Soon, a "get acquainted"-type dinner became a reality; nearly 50 people came.
Rupinskas got the skating directors from some of the Dr. Pepper StarCenters rinks involved. Ice time was donated at a nominal cost.
Workshops, seminars and camps especially for adult figure skaters followed. Adult skaters of all levels were afforded the opportunity to perform in ice shows and recitals. A newsletter was sent to everyone in the group.
Group members were encouraged to skate together during the lunch hour. Now, it seems like every adult skater in Dallas skates on a daily basis.
National and international ice dancing coach Pierre Panayi has been active in both the coaching and administrative levels of the group. World and Olympic coach Lorraine Borman has also helped with coaching. Liz Mangelsdorf, director of skating programs at all Dr. Pepper StarCenters, has generously availed ice time and given moral support to the group.
The Stars FSC has lent its support by providing adult figure skaters with team jackets and including them in all club events.
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"I am so happy that Joanne Rupinskas took the time to form this group. She has done so much for all adult skaters in the Dallas-Fort Worth area," Yee said. "I have learned a lot from the camps, clinics and workshops that are tailored for adult skaters.
"The events are also social events. Adult skaters were scattered everywhere in our city, so we rarely saw each other. The clinics have given us a chance to exchange ideas, build friendships and support each other. Skating has become more fun!"
The group's participants represent all levels of skating. About one-third of the group is made up of adult competitive skaters or test skaters. Some like to freestyle; others like to ice dance. Some skate only on a recreational basis.
There is something for everyone.
"I love to organize things, and I'm so glad to see a real adult figure skating community forming in Dallas," Rupinskas said. "I am passionate about skating and want to get the word out to everyone in the area that ice skating can be done by people of all ages. I look forward to seeing our program grow."
