ISU

The final ISU World Development Trophy Event took place in Manila (PHI) on April 21-16, 2014. 51 athletes and 13 coaches from a total of 10 ISU Members participated in this ISU Development series in the SM Mega Mall.
The Event was spilt into training sessions, seminars and competitions. The Training activities were conducted under the direction of world renowned American coach Ms. Shanetta Folle who has worked with a number of skaters including Moa Asada, Florent Amodio, and Michelle Kwan.
Skaters were divided in 4 training groups. Each group had two on ice practices a day. Coaches participated in each training session and also took part in coaches meetings for Q&A sessions.
Ms. Folle was also the training camp moderator. She presented the modern concept of Figure Skating technique and training, teaching methods for skaters of various levels and ages, she also analyzed the performances of each skater after the competitions and discussed with the relevant coach how to help their athletes improve their performances.
These methods worked very well and according to the feedback received, the coaches found that they were able to improve their knowledge and skills. All the participants successfully went through the program of the camp and several skaters executed their first Triple or Double jumps during this camp.
A Referee and Technical Controller Meeting and a Judges Meeting took place on April 25, together with the Draw Ceremony while the competitions were held on April 26, followed by the Round Table Discussion at the end of the competitions.
The Competitions consisted of Short Program & Free Skating for Junior Ladies and Men, and Free Skating for both Basic Novice A and B for Boys and Girls. The inclusion of both Short and Free Programs for the Junior skaters this year was a major benefit, enabling the participants to experience the training and planning needed to compete in an international event.
The levels of performances by both Junior Ladies & Men were noticeably improved from the previous year and were indicated by the calling of some levels by the Technical Panel up to Level 4, and the awarding of scores from the Judging Panel up to +2 for some elements and some Components up to 5.25. Improved levels as well as scores and components were also evident in some of the Basic Novice A & B skaters’ performances.
All participants expressed their appreciation and enthusiasm and special congratulations were given to the Philippines Skating Union for the organization of their second Development Trophy (the first one took place in April 2013).