Skating Programs

CANSkate

What is CanSkate?

CanSkate is a dynamic learn-to-skate program that focuses on fun, participation and basic skill development. Based on Sport Canada’s long term athlete development (LTAD) principles, CanSkate centers on physical literacy and the fundamental skills needed to take part in any ice sport or to skate as a recreational activity.

Who’s it for?

For beginners of all ages, children or adults, as well as for those wishing to improve their basic skills whether their focus be for figure skating, hockey, speed skating or just skating for fun.

Who teaches it?

Coaches certified by the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP), trained in teaching the mechanics and proper technique of skating. Coaches are assisted by trained Program Assistants.

What will you learn?

A complete series of balance, control and agility skills taught in six stages of learning that pertain to hockey, ringette, speed skating and figure skating as well as general recreational skating. CanSkate uses nationally-tested and proven curriculum and delivery methods that guarantee skater success in developing stronger basic skills and developing them faster.

What can you expect?

Action, movement and fun! Lessons are given in a group format with a coach-to-student ratio of a maximum 1:10. Skaters progress at their own rate and coaches make sessions active using teaching aids, upbeat music and a wide variety of activities that create a motivational environment and promote learning. Badges, ribbons and other incentives are used to benchmark skaters’ progress and reward effort and participation.


STARSkate

Skills, Tests, Achievement, Recognition – this is what STARSkate is all about!

STAR 1-5

STAR 1-5 is an “introduction” to figure skating. Skaters entering the program should be able to perform all skills in the CanSkate Stages 5 & 6.  The sport of figure skating has a strong technical focus. It takes time for skaters to develop the skills necessary to be proficient at certain techniques. The STAR 1-5 program is designed to allow skaters to be recognized for achievement at the various stages.

Skaters will train in Skills, Dance, and Freeskate and Artistic disciplines. Skaters will also have the opportunity to take tests and attend competitions (with an assessed to standard focus).

STAR 6-Gold and COMPETITIVE Skate 

Skaters may choose to continue in higher levels of the STARSkate program (STAR 6, STAR 8, etc.) or transition into in Competitive Skate (Pre-Juvenile, Juvenile, etc.). Skaters may also explore ice dancing, pair skating, artistic skating.  There are many opportunities for skaters and the best path for athletes to take should be a decision made collaboratively (child, parent and coach).

The STAR 6-Gold  program consists of figure skating skills in four areas – Skating Skills, Ice Dance, Free Skate and Artistic.  Tests at the STAR 6 level and above are evaluated at assessment days by officials.  Competitions are ranked rather than assessed to Standard.

STAR 6 – Gold Content

Competitive Skate

Competitive Skate is a program for skaters in singles, pair and ice dance wishing to compete in qualifying events within Skate Canada.

Skaters participating in the in Competitive stream learn a variety of life skills as they progress up the competitive ladder. These include goal setting, focus, ability to deal with success/failure, time management and principles of fair play and sportsmanship.

IT’S MORE THAN JUST SKATING!

Skaters enrolled in CompetitiveSkate learn a variety of life skills as they progress up the competitive ladder. These include goal setting, focus, ability to deal with success/failure, time management and principles of fair play and sportsmanship. In addition to the life skill benefits, skaters in this program receive:

  • access to provincial and national funding programs (as applicable)
  • the opportunity to be selected to Skate Canada’s National Team
  • the opportunity to compete at Skate Canada Sectionals, Skate Canada Challenge, and/or the Canadian Figure Skating Championships
  • opportunity and potential to be selected to represent Canada internationally
  • access to sport science services