Skate Ontario’s 2025/2026 Digital Broadcast – Frequently Asked Questions

With the first live broadcast of the 2025/2026 season coming soon, we are pleased to share this list of Frequently Asked Questions regarding our live broadcast program.

1. What is the purpose of the paywall on Skate Ontario’s streaming platform?

The paywall supports the ongoing development and sustainability of Skate Ontario’s live broadcast services. Instead of charging families a live-stream development fee during competition registration, the cost structure has shifted to a user-based access model—offering more flexibility and value through annual subscriptions and single-event options.

2. How does the new subscription model work, and what are my options? You can choose between:

  • Full-Season Subscription: $40 CAD + HST, granting access to all Skate Ontario–streamed events for the entire 2025–26 season, including on-demand replays
  • Single Event Pass: $20 for marquee events, $9 for non-marquee events, for one-time viewing of specific competitions

This model ensures viewers only pay for what they intend to watch while offering full-season access for those supporting skaters across multiple events.

3. What is the difference between a marquee event and a non-marquee event? 

  • Marquee Events: Championship or equivalent events such as Sectionals, Provincials, Synchro Regionals and Adult championships.
  • Non-Marquee Events: Non-Championship level provincial and synchro series events.

This distinction affects pricing and production coverage levels. 

4. Is the live-stream development fee still included in my child’s competition registration? 

No. Starting in the 2025–26 season, the live-stream development fee has been removed from competition registration. Streaming access is now user-controlled through a paywall, providing families with greater transparency and choice.  

5. If I purchase the full-season subscription, will I need to pay anything additional throughout the season?

No. The $40 + HST subscription covers all Skate Ontario broadcast events from start to finish, including live viewing and on-demand access. No additional charges apply for events included in the package.

6. Can I access event replays if I’m unable to watch live?

Yes. Replay availability may vary by event but is typically accessible shortly after the live broadcast. Content remains online for 12 months, with uploads taking up to two weeks post-event.

7. How do I purchase a subscription or individual event pass?

All purchases are made directly through the Skate Ontario Broadcast Site at https://skateontario.org/skate-ontario-live-stream/. Simply log in or create an account, select your desired subscription or event, and complete the secure payment process.

8. Is my subscription shareable with other family members or devices? 

Subscriptions are tied to individual user accounts. While you can log in on multiple devices, simultaneous streaming on multiple devices may be limited. Families watching from different locations should consider separate subscriptions or coordinate viewing times. Only single concurrent streams per account are allowed.  

9. What should I do if I experience technical difficulties or cannot access the stream after payment?

First, verify your transaction was successful and you are logged into the correct Skate Ontario Broadcast site. Confirm that the event is live during the broadcast window. If issues persist, contact Skate Ontario’s Digital Productions team at [email protected] for support.

10. Are taxes included in the prices listed? 

No. All pricing listed on the platform is exclusive of HST. Applicable taxes will be calculated and added at checkout according to Ontario sales tax regulations.  

11. What is the “Start Tour” button for?

The Start Tour feature provides a short interactive walkthrough to familiarize new users with the broadcast site’s layout and features. It is highly recommended for first-time visitors.

12. Can I download broadcasts to watch offline?

No. To protect athlete privacy and media rights, downloads are not available. All viewing must occur through the secure streaming portal. 

13.Can I gift a subscription to a family member or friend?  

While there is no dedicated gift option, you can purchase and set up a subscription on behalf of someone else by:  

  • Creating an account using the recipient’s name and email address 
  • Completing the subscription purchase with your payment information 
  • Sharing the login details with the recipient 

This allows them to access all live and archived content as if they purchased it themselves.  

14. Is financial assistance available?  

At this time, there is no financial assistance program for streaming subscriptions. Skate Ontario values accessibility and welcomes feedback as they consider more inclusive options in the future. Stay connected for updates on potential initiatives.  

15. How do I watch a live broadcast?  

To watch live: 

16. How do I find and watch archived footage? 

All events are archived after completion and can be accessed anytime during your subscription period: 

  • Log in to your account.
  • Go to the event page you want to rewatch.
  • Select the Archive tab to view available recordings.
  • Click on the segment or flight to watch.

17. How do I reset my password?

If you’ve forgotten your password or would like to change it, here’s what to do: 

  • Go to the login page on the Skate Ontario Broadcast site. 
  • Click the “Forgot Password?” link located just under the login box. 
  • Enter the email address you used when creating your account. 
  • Check your inbox for a password reset email. This will include a secure link to create a new password. 

 Sometimes these emails land in your spam/junk folder or under the “Promotions” tab in Gmail, so be sure to check there if you don’t see it right away. 

If you don’t receive the email within a few minutes, please reach out to [email protected]. We can resend the reset email or help you log back in. 

18. I’ve reached my device limit and can’t watch. What do I do?

For security reasons, your subscription allows a set number of devices to be logged in at one time. If you see a message saying you’ve reached the limit, it usually means: You’re already logged in on too many devices (for example, a laptop, a phone, and a tablet). Or you may still be logged in on a device you’re no longer using. Here’s how to fix it:

  • Log out of the broadcast site on any extra devices.
  • Refresh the page on the device you want to use to watch. If you don’t remember which devices you’re logged into, you can go into your Account Settings → Manage Devices and log them out manually.
  • If you’ve tried this and are still locked out, please contact [email protected]. We can reset your account so you can get back to watching quickly.

19. Why is the video buffering?

Buffering usually happens when your internet speed drops below the recommended level for streaming. To enjoy the broadcast smoothly, here’s what you can do: 

  • Switch connections: A wired Ethernet connection is more stable than Wi-Fi. If you’re on Wi-Fi, try moving closer to your router. 
  • Limit other usage: If others in your household are streaming, gaming, or downloading, this can slow down your connection. 
  • Lower the video quality: Use the settings icon in the video player to reduce playback quality. This can help if your connection isn’t strong. 

If you’ve tried these steps and the video is still buffering, please reach out to [email protected] so we can investigate on our end. 

20. In what format can I expect the recordings to be in?

All event recordings are hosted directly on the Skate Ontario Broadcast site. You do not need to download any special software to view them. Once you log in: Go to the Events tab. Select the event you attended. The recordings will be available in video format and playable directly in your browser. Recordings are streamed in standard MP4 video format, which works on most modern devices — including computers, tablets, and mobile phones. They are view-only through the broadcast platform.

21. I’ve registered for the pay-per-view but want to upgrade my account to the full year subscription. How do I do that?

Yes, upgrades are possible! Here’s how to make the switch:

  • Log into your account on the Skate Ontario Broadcast site.
  • Go to Account Settings → Subscriptions.
  • Select the Full Year Subscription option.
  • Follow the prompts to upgrade. If you’ve already paid for a single pay-per-view event, we recommend contacting [email protected] after upgrading. Our team can confirm your subscription has been adjusted correctly and may be able to help ensure your payment is credited toward your new plan. This way, you won’t miss out on any other competitions throughout the season.

22. I’ve created my account and paid for a subscription but can’t find the live broadcast.

If you’re logged in and can’t see the live event, try these steps:

  • Check your subscription type: Make sure you purchased the correct subscription (pay-per-view vs. full season). Some events may only be visible with a full season subscription.
  • Navigate correctly: Once logged in, go to the Events tab. The live event should appear at the top of the page when it is streaming.
  • Check your login email: Sometimes, people accidentally create more than one account. Confirm you’re logged into the same account you purchased the subscription with.
  • Refresh your browser: Clear your cache/cookies or try logging in from a different browser or device.

If you’ve confirmed your subscription and still haven’t seen the broadcast, please contact [email protected] immediately. Our team can verify your purchase and manually give you access if needed so you don’t miss any of the action.