The first thing I learned about skating, it's definitely a lot harder than it looks. Alena Lunin is the facility's new Skating Director. She's got 34-years of skating experience under her belt, including time as a professional world figure skater. “To get to the top, it's one dream that every little skater wants and when you make it to the top, it's very exciting” says Lunin.
This new $12-million skating facility has something for everyone, whether you're a pro figure skater like Lunin, have the hockey skills of a Komet, or are a rookie like me and are just praying not to fall. The facility will feature 3 NHL-sized rinks, so even if you aren't a pro, you can certainly feel like one.
19-year-old Dana Harper is part of the Fort Wayne Figure Skating Club.She has been skating since she was 4-years-old. “For me it just comes naturally” says Harper. Harper’s seen and experienced just about every injury, including splitting open her chin and head after tripping over her toe pick. “I get afraid sometimes, but then I just got to go there, do it. Sometimes I just have to fall, then I’m good” she says.
So for all you rookies out there, falling is sometimes a good thing. Harper says even if you aren’t coordinated you can still become a decent skater. “It's all about balance and stability and as long as you trust yourself. It's ok to fall, that's how you learn. You just got to get back up and try again” she says.
To find out hours of operation and information on skating lessons head to http://www.icesports.com/fortwayne/default.aspx.
