SRSTA Artistic Roller Skating Coaches & Judges Conference

The 2026 Society of Roller Skating Teachers of America Artistic Roller Skating Coaches and Judges Conference, taking place May 11–12, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the South Point Hotel and Casino alongside the RSA Convention and Trade Show, is a national professional development event dedicated to the education, advancement, and support of artistic roller skating coaches and judges. This conference brings together artistic roller skating professionals from across the country to share knowledge, collaborate, and strengthen the future of artistic roller skating through high-quality instruction and leadership.

The purpose of the conference is to provide meaningful learning opportunities that support coaches and judges in both their technical instruction and professional responsibilities. Through educational sessions, keynote presentations, and hands-on training, attendees will gain practical tools and insights that can be applied directly to their coaching programs. A key focus of the event is ensuring coaches and judges are prepared to create safe, effective, and positive learning environments for skaters at all levels.

Register for the 2026 Conference

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Attendees can expect to learn about and engage in:

• Best practices in artistic roller skating instruction and skill development
• Coaching and judging strategies that support long-term athlete growth and performance
• Safety protocols, risk management, and skater well-being
• CPR and First Aid certification and emergency preparedness
• Effective communication and leadership within coaching roles
• Program development and instructional planning for artistic coaches and judges
• Emerging trends and challenges within artistic roller skating education

In addition to educational sessions, the conference offers valuable opportunities for professional connections. Special events and networking sessions allow SRSTA coaches and judges to collaborate with peers, exchange ideas, and build relationships that extend beyond the conference. These interactions help strengthen the national community of artistic roller skating educators and encourage continued growth within the sport.

By attending the SRSTA Artistic Roller Skating Coaches and Judges Conference, you will invest in your professional development while contributing to the continued excellence and integrity of artistic roller skating instruction. You will leave the conference with expanded knowledge, practical skills, and renewed confidence to support your skaters and programs.

HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS

South Point Hotel & Casino
South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa is a resort located in the heart of the premiere southwest Las Vegas valley, just minutes from the famous Las Vegas Strip. Some of their many amenities include a 16-screen Century Theatre movie complex, 64-lane bowling center, and 60-lane tournament bowling plaza, and a variety of 11 restaurants that cater to all appetites and tastes. The casino features a large selection of table games, including Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Progressive Fortune Pai-Gow Poker, No Commission Baccarat, Ultimate Texas Hold ‘em with Progressive, and Three Card Poker with Progressive. More than 2,200 of the most popular slot and video poker machines. A unique feature of this property is its Equestrian Center, the finest horse facility in the country. South Point also has a fabulous 400-seat showroom that features headliner entertainment and dancing to live bands.

Location
9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89183

Room Pricing
Rooms are $80/night with a discounted resort fee of approximately $20 per night. 

Deadline
April 15, 2026 and no later to receive the RSA room rate. 

Parking
Free self-parking and valet service. 

To Book Your Room
Click here or call 866-791-7626 and use group code RSA2026

DINING GUIDE

We know that one of the best parts of traveling is trying different cuisines, so we put together a quick guide on a variety of restaurants in the hotel for you to enjoy!
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Michael’s Gourmet Room: This intimate, 50-seat room has many prestigious honors awarded by the country’s premier restaurant reviewers, and dining surveys attest to its excellence not only in menu but also in service and style.

Silverado Steakhouse: Silverado Steakhouse offers the charm and service that discerning patrons have come to expect. Hand-painted mural scenes and vintage photographs line the walls above plush, high-backed booths, providing an intimate meal in an elegant yet unpretentious setting.

Don Vito’s Italian Restaurant: The culinary team starts with the freshest ingredients and transforms them into traditional favorites Don Vito’s regulars rave about. Whether looking for homemade gnocchi or ravioli, seafood that is flown in daily, or a wide variety of Italian desserts, you’ll find them here!

Primarily Prime Rib Restaurant: Catering to hearty appetites, the menu features five flavorful prime rib cuts, dry aged to ensure tenderness, seasoned, and slowly roasted.

Baja Miguel’s Mexican Restaurant: Located upstairs in the second floor mezzanine, this festive cantina is a lively backdrop for south-of-the-border favorites plated up in the kitchen. Enjoy a frosty margarita and chips with a trio of salsa, guacamole, and beans while browsing the menu.

Big Sur Oyster Bar: With a bright, airy atmosphere and a sleek granite counter surrounding the open kitchen, the Big Sur Oyster Bar displays the talents of its staff and the freshness of its top-quality ingredients. Shrimp, clams, oysters, mussels, lobster, crab, and fresh fish are prepared before your eyes and served at the bar or barside tables.

Zenshin Asian Restaurant: Owner and Chef Extraordinaire, Terence Fong, has made Zenshin the consummate destination dining pleasure and experience featuring Contemporary Asian Cuisine.

Coronado Cafe: The expansive American menu offers breakfast, lunch, or dinner 24 hours a day, and the Chinese kitchen offers delectable authentic dishes for lunch, dinner, and late-night dining. Wake up to a bottomless cup of freshly brewed coffee, Eggs Benedict smothered with scratch-made hollandaise or a crisp Belgian waffle prepared to order.

Garden Buffet: With a colorful design and a bright, welcoming atmosphere, South Point’s Garden Buffet offers a wide array of selections for unbeatable prices. Choose from six live cooking stations, Asian, Mexican, Italian, Barbecue, Chinese, and Seafood dishes, or customize your own creation at the Mongolian Grill.

Steak 'N Shake: In 2010, the first Steak ‘n Shake in Nevada opened inside South Point Hotel and Casino, serving Steakburgers and Milkshakes daily.

Del Mar Deli: Del Mar Deli at South Point Hotel features a variety of soups, salads, and sandwiches, pizza or corned beef, roast beef, and pastrami sandwiches.

Quick Bites: Grab a coffee at Starbucks, snacks at the Bowling Coffee & Snack Bar inside the Bowling Center, a hot dog at the Hot Dog Cart, or your favorite ice cream at Kate’s Korner.

REGISTRATION PRICING

How much can I save with my RSA membership?
RSA members save significantly on convention registration compared to the $750 non-member rate when registering by the early bird deadline before April 10, 2026.

PRICING:
EARLY BIRD RATES: Coach/Judge: $150
ON-SITE RATE: $200
NON-MEMBER RATE: $750
PRESIDENT’S DINNER TICKETS: $100 Join the RSA for just $40/year at www.rollerskating.com/become-a-member

What’s Included?

• Full registration includes some meals, the trade show, seminars listed in this booklet, and cocktail parties.
• Upon check-in, receive a lanyard, event program, tickets, etc., as available.

Important Deadlines

• Early Bird Rate: Now until April 10, 2026 (Pay before this date to receive discounted rate)
• On-Site Rate: April 11, 2026 - May 12, 2026

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

SUNDAY
Registration Desk Open
Visit the Roller Skating Association Registration desk to pick up your credentials.

7 p.m. – Pool Party—with a Belly Flop Contest!
Bring your swimsuit! Relax, cool off, and connect with fellow attendees at this fun, members-only pool party. Enjoy refreshments, conversation, and plenty of laughs—plus a belly flop contest for those brave enough to make a splash! This is a great way to unwind after a full day of education.
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MONDAY
8:00 A.M. Continental Breakfast
Fuel up for the day with a continental breakfast before heading into a full schedule of educational sessions and networking opportunities.

9:00 A.M. RSA General Assembly Meeting of the Members
The Annual RSA Meeting of the Members brings the roller skating industry together for important updates on the state of the association. Join RSA leadership for reports, voting for President and Vice President, awards presentations, and service recognition, along with insight into initiatives shaping the future of the industry. This year, RSA President Billy Thompson and Vice President Rob Gould are up for re-election. We will be honoring the following individuals this year: Heart of the Industry recipients Megan Braun, Dale Taylor, Joel Shiver, Amanda Finley-Smith, Denise Watkins, Clint Couey, Mason Drew, Sarah McGuire, Tim Marks, Robert Barnuevo. Operator of the Year Award to Rob and Wendy Sherman and highest honors of RSA Life Membership to Doug Foval and Ed Hughes. We will also be giving our membership pins, as well!

10:45 a.m. – Keynote address “In the Kitchen with Frank Kitchen”
In the Kitchen with Frank: A Recipe for Success (Frank Kitchen)
Join keynote speaker Frank Kitchen, a nationally recognized leadership and performance speaker with more than 30 years of experience, for an engaging, high-energy keynote. Frank will use his signature “kitchen-inspired” approach to explore leadership mindset, communication, accountability, and workplace culture, leading to stronger teams, better performance, and more consistent results.

​Frank Kitchen, CSP, is a high-impact keynote speaker and Professional Results Expert who helps organizations and professionals break through stuck thinking and turn intention into action. Known for delivering more than momentary motivation, Frank focuses on clarity, ownership, and execution—helping teams perform at a higher level long after the keynote ends.

With a background rooted in leadership, performance, and workplace execution, Frank works at the intersection of mindset and results. His message resonates with leaders and teams who know what to do, but struggle with follow-through, confidence, or consistency. Organizations turn to Frank when they want momentum—not hype—and culture that drives real results.

At the core of Frank’s work is his proprietary LIVE F.R.E.S.H.™ Framework, a practical and repeatable approach built around five key principles: Focused, Resourceful, Enthusiastic, Strong, and Honest. Using his signature kitchen-inspired metaphors, Frank makes complex ideas around leadership and performance easy to understand, remember, and apply. The framework also creates a shared language teams can continue using well beyond the event.

Frank’s presentations blend engaging storytelling, real-world insight, and practical strategies participants can use immediately. His high-energy, authentic, and interactive style challenges audiences while meeting them where they are—resulting in sessions that are motivating, relatable, and actionable.

Holding the prestigious Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation—earned by only a small percentage of speakers worldwide—Frank brings both credibility and proven results. He is especially effective with associations, leadership teams, and organizations navigating change, growth, or performance challenges.

Attendees of “In the Kitchen with Frank: A Recipe for Success” can expect to leave energized, focused, and equipped with tools to strengthen leadership, accountability, and performance—both professionally and personally.

​12:15 p.m. – Attendee Luncheon
Connect with members from your local RSA chapter during this organized lunch session. Discuss regional topics, share challenges and solutions, and exchange ideas with peers who understand your local market. This is a valuable opportunity to strengthen relationships and gain insight from operators facing similar issues.

1:30 p.m. – CPR certification with Chris & Sharon McMahon
This essential certification seminar equips rink owners, coaches, judges, skaters, and staff with the skills necessary to respond confidently in emergency situations. Participants will receive comprehensive instruction on CPR procedures designed specifically for public entertainment environments like skating rinks. Upon successful completion, attendees will earn CPR certification or re-certification, helping ensure a safer environment for guests and employees alike.

​3:15 p.m. – Building a Thriving Roller Skating Club with Nancy Manning & Jim Bates
Roller skating is more than a hobby—it’s community, confidence, creativity, and connection on wheels. This dynamic seminar is designed for aspiring club founders, rink managers and skating enthusiasts who want to build a roller skating club that attracts members, keeps them engaged, and grows sustainably.
In this session, participants will learn the essential steps to launching a successful roller skating club—from defining your vision and recruiting members to creating a strong culture that people want to be part of. We’ll explore practical strategies for organizing events, structuring practices, building leadership teams, and fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment for skaters of all levels.

​Beyond the basics, this seminar dives into the secret to long-term success: keeping it fun. Discover how to create exciting themed events, skill-building challenges, social experiences, and recognition systems that motivate members and build loyalty. Learn how to prevent burnout, handle conflicts, maintain high energy, and turn casual participants into committed ambassadors for your club.
Attendees will leave with:

• A step-by-step roadmap for starting a roller skating club
• Proven strategies to create a positive and engaging club culture
• Creative ideas to keep members excited and involved
• Retention techniques that build loyalty and community
• Leadership tools to ensure sustainability and growth

Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to revitalize an existing club, this seminar will equip you with the tools, mindset, and strategies to build a roller skating community that people love—and stay committed to. Let’s roll toward building something unforgettable!

​4:30 P.M. – Judging Techniques & Calibration in Competitive Roller Skating with John Lehni
This comprehensive seminar provides an in-depth exploration of judging standards, evaluation techniques, and calibration methods used in competitive roller skating in AARS. Designed for judges and coaches the seminar focuses on improving scoring accuracy, consistency, and objectivity across disciplines including Artistic figure, dance, and freestyle events.

​Seminar Focus Areas
1. Understanding Judging Criteria while using the integer system.

• Calibration charts used to identify levels in the various disciplines.
• Use of video practice to reinforce calibration.

2. Scoring Accuracy & Consistency

• Recognizing scoring elements and priorities.
• Avoiding common judging biases.
• Applying standardized benchmarks for performance levels.

3. Judge Calibration Methods

• Pre-competition alignment sessions.
• Discussion of the use of the soft average.
• Video-based scoring comparisons.
• Statistical review of scores given and discussions based on these scores.

4. Ethics & Professional Responsibility

• Maintaining neutrality and integrity.
• Consistency across panels and events.

Learning Outcomes - Participants will:
Strengthen technical evaluation skills and be able to recognize the priorities in each discipline.
• Improve scoring consistency across panels by understanding the integer system.
• Apply objective scoring principles with confidence.
• Enhance professional credibility as certified officials.
This seminar combines theory, video analysis, practical scoring exercises, and interactive discussion to ensure participants leave with actionable tools to improve judging precision and reliability

7:00 p.m. – Sure Grip Welcome Reception
Join fellow attendees, sponsors, and industry partners for an evening of networking, drinks, and light hors d’oeuvres in the Exhibit Hall. This relaxed reception is a great opportunity to reconnect, build relationships, and kick off the Convention’s main programming.

TUESDAY
8:00 A.M. Breakfast with the AMERICAN ROLLER SPORTS Board of Directors
Join us for an intimate morning gathering with the American Roller Sports Board of Directors over breakfast. This unique forum offers coaches and judges the opportunity to connect directly with the leadership shaping the future of roller sports in the United States. Hear firsthand about the organization’s current initiatives, strategic priorities, and upcoming developments that will impact the artistic roller skating community. Board members will share updates on governance, competition structure, athlete development, and national-level advocacy efforts.

9:00 A.M. Building Effective Partnerships between Roller Skating Rink Operators and Coaches with Bob Labriola
This high-impact seminar shows roller skating coaches and rink operators how to align their expertise to grow programs, increase participation, and generate substantial, sustainable income.

When coaching strategy and rink operations work together, the result isn’t just better athletes — it’s stronger businesses and higher profits.

What We’ll Cover:

• Clear roles that eliminate conflict and protect revenue
• Partnership models that maximize earnings (contracts, revenue share, premium programs)
• Smart scheduling that increases floor utilization and cash flow
• Building competitive and recreational pathways that keep skaters enrolled — and paying

You’ll Learn How To:

• Create win-win financial structures
• Turn training programs into reliable income streams
• Increase retention, referrals, and event revenue
• Position your rink and coaching brand as leaders in the market

Ideal for: Coaches, rink owners/managers, and club administrators ready to grow their impact — and their income. 

​10:30 a.m. – Skate Set-up with David Ripp
Skate maintenance is critical to safety, performance, and customer satisfaction. This foundational seminar covers essential maintenance techniques, routine inspections, and preventative care that anyone working in the roller skating industry should know. Ideal for operators, coaches, judges, skaters, and staff looking to improve consistency and reduce long-term equipment costs.

11:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Enjoy the trade show with lunch on your own
Every great recipe needs great ingredients — and ours are all under one roof! As a coach or judge, staying informed and connected is key to your success, and our trade show is the perfect place to do just that. Explore the latest products, connect face-to-face with top industry vendors, and discover the tools that are the secret sauce to keeping your programs and athletes at the top of their game. Take a break mid-day to grab lunch on your own, recharge, and connect with fellow coaches and judges before heading back to the floor for more. Leave with a full plate of fresh ideas — this is one event you won’t want to miss!

​3:00 p.m. – Roller Skating Choreography: Freestyle & Free Dance Creative & Precision with Chris Baerg
This session offers an in-depth exploration of building dynamic and memorable roller skating routines across freestyle, free dance, creative, precision, and show team disciplines. Designed for skaters, coaches, and ​choreographers at all levels, this seminar dives into the art of balancing creative expression with technical precision — helping participants craft routines that are both imaginative and competition-ready.
Attendees will learn how to translate music, rhythm, and emotion into expressive movement, using storytelling and theme development to bring routines to life on the floor. From designing a choreographic arc with a clear beginning, middle, and end, to integrating technical elements seamlessly without disrupting the flow, participants will gain a well-rounded approach to routine construction — including efficient and safe use of rink space. Musical interpretation is at the heart of great skating, and this session will help attendees sharpen their ability to match movement to musical phrasing, accents, and rhythm in a way that feels natural and intentional. The seminar also covers the performance side of competition — projection, posture, connecting with judges and the audience, and building the consistency and confidence needed to deliver a polished routine when it counts most. Participants will leave with the tools to develop original, competition-ready routines that strike the perfect balance between artistry and scoring criteria.

4:30 p.m. – First Aid Certification with Chris and Sharon McMahon
​Every great recipe needs a safety net — and this session makes sure you have one! This hands-on seminar focuses on bandaging and splinting techniques — essential ingredients every rink operator should have in their toolkit. Learn how to properly stabilize injuries, control bleeding, and apply splints to support broken bones until emergency personnel arrive. No recipe for a successful coach is complete without knowing how to handle the unexpected! Certification and re-certification are available through the National Safety Council, with certificates awarded right onsite.

7 p.m. – Pacer Party
Enjoy an evening of music and networking hosted in partnership with Pacer. This fun event combines entertainment with valuable opportunities to connect with fellow operators and industry partners in a relaxed setting, often with door prizes and music throughout the evening.

10 P.M. - Bowling Fundraiser for the American Roller Sports
Wrap up the evening with a casual bowling fundraiser benefiting American Roller Sports. Enjoy friendly competition, conversation, and a laid-back atmosphere while supporting the sport.

WEDNESDAY (optional)
7 p.m. – President’s Reception & Dinner
($100 per ticket)
For those attendees who intend to stay until Wednesday, you may purchase tickets to the President’s Dinner. Celebrate the conclusion of Convention with an elegant dinner, and the annual Museum raffle. Dino a’ la Carte, who performs at the Golden Tiki and with various Rat Pack groups, will be performing during the President’s Dinner. This signature event brings the week to a memorable close.

SPECIAL EVENTS AND PARTIES

​Pool Party
SUNDAY - 7 - 9 PM
​Dive into an exclusive members-only pool party! Bring your swimsuit, sip on a refreshing cocktail, and soak up the evening under the stars for a night of fun, relaxation, and great company.

Suregrip Welcome Reception
MONDAY – 7 - 9 PM
Join our sponsor, SureGrip, alongside RC Sports and Southeastern Skate Supply Georgia and Virginia for a boot scootin’ good time.​

Pacer Party
TUESDAY – 7 - 9 PM
Join our sponsor, Pacer, for an evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, prizes, and more!​

American Roller Sports Bowling Fundraiser
TUESDAY AFTER PACER PARTY
​Join fellow RSA members for a fun evening of competitive bowling fun to help raise money for American Roller Sports!

President’s Dinner and Reception
WEDNESDAY - 7 - 10 p.m. 
Don’t miss your last chance to eat, drink and dance the night away at this formal event celebrating the RSA President, the roller skating industry and those who contribute to it. Plus, make sure to grab a raffle ticket from your RSA Board Member or National Museum of Roller Skating Trustees at their trade show booth to win a giant raffle at the end of the night. Raffle tickets are just $50 each. 

FAQS ABOUT THE CONFERENCE

WHAT TO EXPECT

​Check-In Process
After hotel check-in, visit the RSA Registration Desk to complete a brief form with hotel details and emergency contact information.

What You’ll Receive
Attendees will get a lanyard with a badge for event access (required at all times).

Post Check-In
Attend seminars, grab breakfast (if provided), or explore the area while waiting for sessions.

General Assembly meeting of the members
This is a required meeting to update members, issue awards, and vote on constitutional changes for voting RSA member rinks. Attendance at the RSA Convention is not required for this meeting. Member skating rinks vote on president/vice president every two years.

Awards Ceremonies
Awards and service pins will be presented on stage during the General Assembly. The honors committee will be honoring the following winners: Heart of the Industry: Megan Braun, Dale Taylor, Joel Shiver, Amanda Finley-Smith, Denise Watkins, Clint Couey, Mason Drew, Sarah McGuire, Tim Marks, and Robert Barnuevo. Operator of the Year Award: Rob and Wendy Sherman. RSA Life Membership: Doug Foval, Ed Hughes.

Trade Show
Opens Tuesday with a ribbon-cutting, awards for creative booths, and vendor showcases featuring premier industry suppliers. This year, an exciting addition is that some vendors have opted to utilize extended booth time.

Special Events & Fundraisers
Silent auctions and raffles supporting the Roller Skating Foundation and National Museum of Roller Skating. Bowling fundraiser to support American Roller Sports.

​Event Attire

• Cocktail events: Everyday attire or cocktail dresses/business casual.
• Seminars: Comfortable clothing; bring a jacket for chilly rooms.
• President’s Dinner: For those attendees who want to stay until Wednesday night, they may purchase tickets to our President’s Dinner with cocktail attire. This event will also provide the option to purchase photos of you and your friends, family, or other attendees through on-site photographer with a portion of proceeds benefiting the National Museum of Roller Skating.

Additional Details

• Bring a pen and notepad.
• No live streaming of events.
• Hotel business centers handle copies.
• Only credentialed media may attend (contact RSA for passes).
• Notify RSA of special accommodations or dietary needs on your application online.
• Bring your skates if you want to check out the local rinks.

Weather in May
Highs of 89°F and lows of 66°F.

Questions?
Contact Angela Tanner at 317-347-2626 Ext. 102 or email at [email protected] with questions about the event, booth space, or sponsorships.

Contact Shane Locklear at [email protected] or Lisa Dunham at [email protected] for questions about seminars.