IMHO, there are plenty of club competitions & shows that allow skaters of lesser technical ability to show their love of the sport & express their wish to compete/perform. Therefore, I think the regionals/sectionals/nationals structure should be specifically aimed at the development of the highest-skilled skaters, with an eye to producing the best senior team possible. I’m all for going back to the days of having nationals be the ultimate reward for the very best seniors and juniors (and, yes, keep novices), to prevent sandbagging at lower levels. Want a national medal? Work harder & move up faster.
Going back to just these 3 levels also helps in finding more options for nationals sites, since ice facilities are needed for a much shorter stretch & clubs don’t have to find as many volunteers.
Going back to just these 3 levels also helps in finding more options for nationals sites, since ice facilities are needed for a much shorter stretch & clubs don’t have to find as many volunteers.