Photo by Sharilyn Wells/Paraglide Carley Bryant practices a sit spin during a figure skating lesson, Friday, at Cleland Ice Rink. Bryant was participating in the learn-to-skate program, offered by Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation.

For 15-year-old, Jamie Alexander, ice-skating was the perfect fit for her lifestyle.

Alexander tried many different after-school activities such as gymnastics and ballet. But nothing seemed to grab her attention, that is, until Alexander tried ice-skating. At just 9 years old, she fell in love with the sport and at 10, she began practicing her first ice-skating jumps.

Cleland Ice Rink, located on Reilly Road (across the street from Callahan Athletic Center), offers Learn-to-Skate lessons for military members and dependents and is also open to the public. The next Learn-to-Skate session starts Sept. 19 and will run through Oct. 24. The $60 session lasts 45 minutes and is held every Monday (times based on skill level) for six weeks. Children, ages 4 and up, as well as adults are welcome. Registration begins Monday and skates are provided.

Figure skating private lessons are also available. Registration is open and each lesson works toward an individual’s specific goal or event, to include competitions.

Alexander said her proudest moment since she began ice-skating was when she won five gold medals at a single competition.

The Learn-to-Skate program is also hosting a holiday ice show, The Nutcracker, on Dec. 11. Registration for participants is currently open until Sept. 15 and practices will be held mostly on Fridays.

“People should really give skating a try,” Alexander said. “If they haven’t found something they truly enjoy yet, give it a try and if it feels right, continue on. It’s a lot of fun.”

Cleland Ice Rink also offers ice hockey lessons. Registration is currently open until Sept. 24 and costs $325 for military and $375 for civilians. Practice days and times are based on the age and skill-level of participants and games will be held on Saturdays. Children must be at least 6 years old to participate. The season runs from October through February and Cleland provides all equipment, except skates, stick and protective cup.

For more information about the skating programs, the holiday show, or open public skating hours, contact Cleland Ice Rink at 396-5127 or visit the Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation website at www.fortbraggmwr.com/cleland.php.

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