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  • March 5, 2010
  • Christine Davis Mantai

Skaters in Joan Disbrow’s figure skating classes have been practicing since Oct. 13, learning new moves, spins and jumps, which they will perform in several shows this week in Steele Hall Arena. The shows are free and open to the public.

SUNY Fredonia's Skating Club, which practices once a week and coaches Disbrow’s children’s classes twice a week, will perform on Monday, Mar. 8 at 8:15 p.m. A few guest skaters from the University at Buffalo and Buffalo State College will be performing, along with former Fredonia alumni.

On Sunday, Mar. 7, at 3 p.m., and Thursday, Mar. 11 at 6:30 p.m., Disbrow's children’s classes will be performing public shows.

"Figure skating teaches you that hard work and dedication actually works," Coach Disbrow said. She has been coaching skating for over 15 years and at SUNY Fredonia teaches skating classes for credit, including intermediate hockey and figure skating. 

Regarding how ice skating is beneficial on and off the ice, she says it teaches students they shouldn’t ever give up, even if they experience a few hard bumps along the way. "The rewards are awesome. Use it for any challenge in the future."