International Skating Center of Connecticut offers escape from heat

“It’s like a pool but frozen, but better and more fun," said Emma Joseph, who skated at the ISCC Wednesday.

Ava Varvelli, who’s been skating with the ISCC for six years, said it's a refreshing activity amid hot temperatures outside.

“It’s just like a break from the summer heat and it’s just really nice,” she said.

The ISCC offers a number of different skating programs and classes for skaters of all different skill levels. 

“We do have some public skate offerings so that’s open to everybody,” said Skye-Lynn Dougherty, a coach with the ISCC. “We have skate rentals available if you don’t have your own skates and we do go a size down to help you out when you’re trying to size those out.”

They also offer drop-in hockey, drop-in skating, adult programs, figure skating lessons and a first stride program that introduces young kids to ice hockey.

Ian Reopel has taught with the first stride program for two months, but has taught hockey overall for 10 years. He said there are more kids this week because of the weather.

“A lot of people have been coming through the doors. It’s a hockey rink, we do ice hockey as well as figure skating,” Reopel said. "We’ve seen a lot of people coming in, taking a break from the heat and having some fun.”

For those who have never skated before and want to enjoy the cool rink, Varvelli said don't be nervous and have fun because everyone starts as a beginner.

Kaye Paddyfote is a reporter at FOX61 News. She can be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on X and Instagram.

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