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Rising STAR

From CanSkate to Figure Skating — Take the Next Step!

Program Overview

Rising STAR is designed for young skaters who are enjoying CanSkate and are beginning to show an interest in figure skating. The program provides additional opportunities to develop fundamental figure skating skills while continuing to progress through the CanSkate stages.

Skaters will work on skills that prepare them for the transition into STAR 1, including skating technique, balance, control, agility and introductory figure skating elements.

Rising STAR creates a supportive bridge between CanSkate and STARSkate, giving skaters the opportunity to build confidence and develop the skills they need before moving into more specialized figure skating programming.

The program is part of the FUNdamentals stage of Skate Canada's Long-Term Development model.

Program Details

  • Location: Veterans Memorial Sports Complex, Stonewall, MB
  • Session: Mondays & Thursdays, 6:30-7:15 PM (Fall & Winter)
  • Registration Options: Skaters may register for one session per week or register for both weekly sessions.
  • Who Can Join?: Rising STAR is open to skaters who are nearing the completion of CanSkate Stage 3 or have already completed Stage 3. This helps ensure skaters have the foundational skating skills needed to get the most out of the program.

Who is Rising STAR For?

Rising STAR is intended for skaters who have progressed to approximately CanSkate Stage 3–4 and are showing an interest in pursuing figure skating.

Your skater may be a good candidate if they:

  • Enjoy spending time on the ice and want to continue developing their skills
  • Are beginning to show an interest in figure skating
  • Have demonstrated strong CanSkate skills
  • Are ready for additional figure skating-focused instruction
  • Are working toward the skills needed to enter STAR 1

Some skaters may be recommended for Rising STAR by their CanSkate coach. This recommendation may be included on their CanSkate report card.

Not sure if Rising STAR is the right fit for your skater? Reach out to one of our coaches and we would be happy to help determine the best next step.

What Will Skaters Learn?

Rising STAR gives skaters extra time and support to develop the fundamental skills needed for their next stage of skating.

Figure Skating Fundamentals

Skaters are introduced to basic figure skating elements while continuing to strengthen their skating foundations.

Balance, Control & Agility

The skills developed through CanSkate remain an important part of the program. Skaters will continue working on edge quality, balance, control, turns and overall skating ability.

Progressive Development

Skills are introduced gradually and become more challenging as skaters develop. This allows each participant to build confidence while working toward the requirements needed for STAR 1.

Experienced Coaching

Sessions are led by qualified coaches who provide instruction, encouragement and feedback to help each skater continue progressing.

What Do I Need?

Rising STAR skaters should come prepared with:

Helmet

A CSA-approved hockey helmet is recommended/required according to the skater's CanSkate stage and club requirements. Skaters who reach Stage 6 may be permitted to skate without a helmet.

Bicycle helmets are not an appropriate substitute for a CSA-approved hockey helmet in the skating environment.

Skates

Skates should be properly fitted and sharpened regularly.

Figure skates: We recommend using a professional who specializes in sharpening figure skate blades.

As a general guideline, skates should be sharpened approximately every 15–20 hours of skating, although this can vary based on the skater and how frequently they skate.

Gloves or Mittens

Keep hands warm while providing some protection during falls and other contact with the ice.

Warm Clothing

Long pants and a warm sweater or jacket will help keep skaters comfortable while allowing them to move freely.

Towel or Soft Cloth

Use this to dry skate blades after skating and help prevent rust.

Skate Guards

Hard guards are recommended for walking around the rink in skates. Soft guards or soakers can be used when storing skates between sessions.

What's Next?

Rising STAR is designed to help skaters build the skills and confidence they need for the next stage of their skating journey.

As your skater progresses, their coach will help determine when they are ready to move into STAR 1.

Rising STAR → STAR 1 → STARSkate

The goal is to make that transition feel exciting — not overwhelming — while ensuring each skater has the foundation they need to succeed.

[Learn More About STARSkate →]

CanSkate Competitions

CanSkate isn't just about learning skills — skaters can also have opportunities to show off what they've learned!

Competition opportunities are available for skaters across CanSkate Stages 1–6, depending on the events offered at individual competitions.

Competition Events May Include:

  • Element Events
    Skaters demonstrate skills appropriate to their current CanSkate stage.
  • Creative Improv
    Skaters respond to music through creative movement and skating.
  • Team Events
    Skaters work together as a team while demonstrating their skating skills.

What Skates Can I Wear?

CanSkate competitions can be completed in either hockey or figure skates, allowing skaters to compete in the equipment they are most comfortable using.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If your skater is excited about figure skating and ready for a new challenge, Rising STAR could be the perfect next step.

Build the skills. Find your confidence. Discover what's next.

⛸️ Skate. Grow. Belong.