Program Information
CANSKATE
CanSkate is Skate Canada's flagship learn-to-skate program for beginners of any age that teachers fundamental movements and basic skills. This is a learn-to-skate program that focuses on fun, participation and basic skill development. CanSkate is for skaters of all ages, as well as for those wishing to improve their basic skills whether their focus is for figure skating, hockey, speed skating or just skating for fun. CanSkate is taught by NCCP-trained professional coaches, assisted by trained program assistants.
CanSkate is 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.
Equipment required – skates, guards, mittens or gloves, and CSA approved hockey helmet.
STARSKATE
Skills, Tests, Achievement, Recognition – this is what Star Skate is all about!
STAR 1-5
The STAR 1-5 program offers the best-in-class figure skating curriculum in Canada, targeting athletes looking for a future in the sport. Taught by Skate Canada NCCP coaches, the program introduces participants to the basic figure skating elements to create the foundation for singles, pairs, ice dance and synchronized skating.
All skaters in this program must have passed CanSkate Stage 6 or equivalent. Skaters may be any age. Adaptive skaters who have the required skating ability welcome.
STAR 6- GOLD
STAR 6- Gold is an assessment and event structure for skaters who completed the STAR 1-5 Program. This structure builds on the skills acquired in STAR 1-5 and introduces skaters to more advanced figure skating elements.
DISCIPLINES
Figure skating has four disciplines that lead to a high performance pathway.
Singles: Single skating is a term used to describe the discipline of freeskate. Generally, this is the most recognized form of figure skating.
Pairs: Pair skating involves two individuals skating as a unit performing freeskating moves. Pair skating also includes lifts, death spirals and throws.
Ice Dance: Inspired by ballroom dancing, this discipline incorporates musicality, performances and athletisim to all your favourite rhythms.
Synchronized: Synchronized skating, or “synchro” is a specialized discipline of skating involving groups of eight or more skaters performing various group formations and maneuvers. The objective is for the team to perform as one unit executing circles, blocks, lines, wheels and intersections in unison to the music, while demonstrating quality edges, power and flow. Synchronized Skating categories accommodate skaters at any age and skill level.