July '08'

• With less than 1 week still the WA State Champs Cara Ioppolo and coach Barry Andrews have shocked the local community by going their separate ways. Whether this has anything to do with controversial crash between Cara and fellow opponent Jazmin Hanson at a recent training session is anyone's guess.

June '08'

• The State program has been released with no real surprises. With decent numbers in some events there is sure to be some good competition. One event not to miss will be the Junior International Solo Dance where 2008 Cadet Oceania Champion Ebony Cassady has moved up to challenge the 2007 National 3rd and 4th place winners Jazmin Hanson and Shenae Kealley as well as 2008 Oceania Junior 2nd place winner Cara Ioppolo. Check the program out HERE.

• With competition in international solo dance grades reaching boiling point, skaters have begun to turn to outside sources to give themselves the edge over their competitors. In the past we have seen dance choreographers and ice skating coaches consulted on everything from precision to figures and now its ballroom dance teachers that are being called upon. With two skaters already employing a ballroom dance coach, it will be interesting to see who else will join the trend.

• Minutes from the SA Board meeting held on the 17th and 18th May have been released and can be read HERE. Some of the more interesting points to arise from it are that Nigel Foster and Tammy Bryant have been appointed team manager and coach for the 2009 world team. Other interesting news is that board member Brett Grove will not be standing for re-election next year.

• With States 08 not too far away, plans about what to wear to the State Dinner are soon to be one of the big decisions facing many. Plans for this year's dinner are set and promise to be a bit more upmarket than usual with a DJ and set menu so get your friends and family together to have a good night! Details can be found HERE.

  • For those interested in the menu its:

    • Minestrone Soup/Crusty Bread Roll

    • Succulent Chicken Breast with shiraz Jus or Char grilled Sirloin Steak
       (Both served with vegetable or Salad and Potato of the day)

    • Chocolate Mud cake or Mixed Berry Cheese Cake

    • Unlimited  Tea and Coffee

• With Nationals coming to Perth later in the year, States 08 will see the introduction of coaches passes and strict rules concerning entry into the marshalling area. This is being done to give everyone (skaters, coaches and marshals), the chance to prepare for Nationals where these rules are firmly implemented. Coaches are encouraged to organise their passes as soon as possible. Further information about the passes is available HERE.

  • UPDATE: Level 0 coaches are only being granted entry for the practice and there is a maximum of 2 coaches per skater

• 'UP 2 D8', the newest skate site has arrived, with all the latest news and official info as well as links to the coolest sites its sure to be a hit!