Welcome to our new blog series, “Meet the Panel!” In this series, we introduce you to the members of the officials’ panel who evaluate skaters at competitions. Our goal is to clarify their roles, highlight the collaborative scoring process, and introduce you to the real people behind those protocol sheets.  Last week, we met Jacki Wilkicki, a nationally ranked International Judging System (IJS) Technical Specialist.

Now, in part two we continue our discussion with Jacki, delving deeper into her insights and experiences as a technical specialist.

Christina: What’s one valuable piece of advice for skaters looking to improve their technical performance on the ice?

Jacki: Skaters should know which side of the panel is which. Performing to the tech panel side is appreciated but not rewarded like judges’ Grades of Execution (GOEs). Coaches should help build connections with their skaters and officials so skaters see us as real people here to do our best for them.

Christina: What is the most challenging element to evaluate accurately, and why?

Jacki: The leveled step sequence is the hardest. Pairs are very complex, with one Tech Specialist watching the man and another watching the woman, to evaluate steps and turns. Skaters tend to rush these elements, but it’s important to take time and make clear turns which contribute to their skating skills and component scores. Clean steps are hard to achieve, but you can objectively tell which turns are clean, total those up, and determine their level based on that.

Christina: What can skaters do to help clarify their elements?

Jacki: Clean turns! Work on moves, not rushing to move up levels. Take time to ensure each element is clearly laid out. We want to see precise entries to spins and jumps. For spins, count those revolutions! I tell skaters to start counting at 0 for a buffer to get the required revolutions.

Christina: What is the most misunderstood part of your role?

Jacki: Skaters, parents, and coaches sometimes believe we are lenient on some skaters but not others. The rule is “in favor of the skater” when deciding on elements executed without clarity. We look again to give points, aiming to benefit the skater. There is an extensive conflict list ensuring no bias, focusing only on what happens during that performance.

Christina: Can you clarify your role versus that of the Assistant Tech Specialist and Tech Accountant?

Jacki: The Technical Accountant works with the Data Operator to ensure rules are applied accurately and assists with tweaks. The Assistant Technical Specialist, or second Technical Specialist, takes notes along with the Controller. The first Technical Specialist focuses on the skater, calling what is seen. With notes, we rebuild the program and offer feedback based on what was skated. We work as a team, and I’ve created wonderful friendships and partnerships over the years. Being on the tech panel, regardless of my seat, feels like home.

Christina: Have you encountered a tricky situation when assessing elements during a competition?

Jacki: Yes, at an Adult Nationals, there was a debate on the definition of a throw jump in pairs. Do you go by intent or the amount of contact between skaters? We decided based on intent but wanted to ensure the final protocol matched the performance and was understandable for skaters and coaches.

Christina: What happens when a skater’s planned program components change?

Jacki: The tech panel doesn’t deal with components, but we pivot when there are deviations from the planned sheet. We focus on the current version of the program, ensuring the final protocol matches the skater’s completed elements.

Christina: How do you stay updated on changes to the IJS rules and regulations, and how do these changes impact your role?

Jacki: Keeping up with updates and notifications is crucial, as there are many moving parts within the rules. Everything is on Members Only area of US Figure Skating, and one team member has the rules out on the panel for reference. The tech panel meets to discuss relevant rules and potential elements needing a second look.

Christina: Do technical specialists have input in making annual rule changes to the IJS?

Jacki: USFS officials on committees provide education and support to maintain consistency across the country. At my level, we do not have direct impact on international rules.

Christina: Can you share a memorable experience where you felt proud of your contribution to the scoring process?

Jacki: Being a Technical Specialist for the 2023 Nationals in San Jose was my favorite memory. Focused on pairs, my passion, I was going through health challenges and everyone was supportive. I dressed in my style to feel more confident and implemented a pairs seminar with nearly 30 officials wanting to practice tech. I’m proud of getting that off the ground with Gale Tanger’s support and hope my legacy is being myself, educating new officials, and making pairs a more successful discipline for the country.

Stay tuned for more insights and stories from the officials’ panel in our Meet the Panel series!