Program Overview:

CanSkate is Skate Canada’s learn-to-skate program, offering skaters of all ages the opportunity to develop confidence and fundamental skating skills in a fun and supportive environment. Our NCCP-certified coaching team provides instruction that allows skaters to learn at their own pace while building the skills needed for skating, hockey, ringette, figure skating and other activities on the ice.

Location: Veterans Memorial Sports Complex, Stonewall, MB
Schedule: Mondays & Thursdays, 6:30–7:15 PM (Fall & Winter)
Registration Options: Skaters may attend one session per week or register for both weekly sessions.

CanSkate is part of the FUNdamentals stage of Skate Canada’s Long-Term Development model.

What CanSkate Offers:

Small-Group Coaching
Skaters are grouped according to their current abilities so they can receive instruction that is appropriate for their stage of development. This allows coaches to provide individual feedback while helping skaters progress confidently.
Balance, Control & Agility
CanSkate focuses on three key areas of skating development: Balance, Control and Agility. These skills form the foundation for becoming a confident and capable skater, regardless of the sport or skating activity they choose to pursue.
Active & Engaging Sessions
Skaters spend their time on the ice actively learning and practicing through a variety of drills, games and circuit-based activities. This keeps sessions fun while giving skaters plenty of opportunities to practice their skills.
Extra Support on the Ice
Along with our coaching staff, skaters may receive additional assistance from trained Program Assistants and community volunteers. These helpers provide encouragement and reinforcement while creating a positive and welcoming experience for all participants.

Who Can Participate?

CanSkate is a great option for:

Beginning skaters who are comfortable moving independently on the ice and want to build their confidence and skills.
Skaters interested in other sports, including hockey, ringette and figure skating, who want to develop strong skating fundamentals.
Recreational skaters who simply want to become more comfortable and confident on the ice.

CanSkate provides the foundation skaters need to continue into other skating programs and sports as they develop.

Skater Progress & Recognition

Skaters' development is monitored throughout the season as coaches work with them on Balance, Control and Agility skills.

As skaters develop new skills, they can work toward earning ribbons and badges that recognize their progress and accomplishments. These milestones allow skaters to see how far they've come and provide encouragement as they work toward their next goals.

For more information about the skills assessed throughout the CanSkate program, families can refer to the CanSkate Report Card provided by Skate Canada.

A copy of the report card is also available on the club bulletin board at Veterans Memorial Sports Complex.

What Do I Need for CanSkate?

Skaters should arrive prepared with the following:

CSA-approved hockey helmet is required for CanSkate participants. Hockey helmets are specifically designed and tested for rink environments. Bicycle helmets are not an appropriate substitute.
Skaters may use either hockey or figure skates. Skates should be properly fitted and sharpened regularly.

Figure skates: We recommend having figure skates sharpened by someone who specializes in figure skate blades, as these blades require specific sharpening techniques. Please speak with one of our coaches for recommendations.

Hockey skates: Hockey skates can be sharpened at most hockey pro shops or by a qualified skate sharpener.

As a general guideline, skates should be sharpened approximately every 15–30 hours of skating, although this can vary depending on use and ice conditions.

Warm gloves or mittens help keep hands comfortable while also providing some protection from bumps and falls.
Dress in comfortable, warm clothing that allows for movement. Long pants and a warm sweater or jacket are recommended.
Bring a small towel or soft cloth to wipe down skate blades after each session and help prevent rust.
Hard guards are recommended for walking around the rink in skates.
Soft guards or soakers are useful for protecting and drying blades while skates are stored in a skate bag.

Want to See the Skills in Action?

Families can find examples of the skills taught in CanSkate through Skate Canada's Development Video Library.

CanSkate Competitions

Did you know that CanSkate participants can also have the opportunity to showcase their skills in competition?

Competition opportunities may be available to skaters across CanSkate Stages 1–6, giving participants a fun way to challenge themselves and experience the excitement of performing in front of others.

Competition Events May Include:

Creative Improv
Skaters use their creativity and musicality to respond to music through movement on the ice.
Element Event
Skaters demonstrate skills and elements appropriate to their CanSkate stage.
Team Event
Skaters participate as part of a team while demonstrating their skating skills.

What Skates Can I Wear?

CanSkate competitions can accommodate both hockey and figure skates, so participants can compete in the type of skates they normally use for the program.