Students skate circles around CEL gym

[December 16, 2011]  For a few days every December, the gym in Chester-East Lincoln School is transformed into a roller-skating rink. As a visitor walks toward the gym door, he can hear the rhythmic sound of wheels on wood -- going 'round and 'round. The sound is accompanied by sudden shrieks and muffled voices.

From Monday through Wednesday this week, students spent their physical education time skating, or trying to skate and learning to land gracefully, if possible.

"They range from not knowing how to skate at all, to being on their own from the time they touch the floor," said physical education instructor Marge Aper.

"It's quite a mix, but even the newcomers to the sport can figure out how to make some progress. And the junior high students from study hall can come in and be helpers, so that gives the younger kids some support."

Mrs. Aper offered direction and suggestions as skaters worked to improve their skills.

Some students have skated before and took off to circle the oval with confidence and practiced know-how. Others shuffled their feet in opposite directions, hoping to move forward and somehow get the momentum going. If you've ever been on that side of the skate wheels, you know how that works.

A family skate Tuesday night allowed parents and kids to enjoy time together. According to Mrs. Aper, 200 adults and children took advantage of the opportunity to roll around the gym. The event was sponsored by the Chester-East Lincoln Community Club.

There are few skating rinks left in central Illinois, and nothing closer than the south side of Springfield. The school rented 90 pairs of skates and dozens of wrist guards from Skatetime School Programs, Rochester. But the rental system is even better than taking a field trip to a facility. It brings the sport to school for several days. Experienced skaters can enjoy the activity several times, and the extended period allows novices to develop some techniques, something a couple of hours out of town couldn't provide.

Roller-skating is good cardiovascular exercise. Judging from the red faces and sweaty brows, it gives the body a workout comparable to running around the playground or playing outside games that are not possible during the winter months.

[By MARLA BLAIR]