Fall and Winter 2024-2025 

 

Welcome to CanPowerSkate!

Implemented by Skate Canada in 1986 to focus on skating development for ice sports outside of figure skating, the CanPowerSkate program was designed to assist the development of both hockey and ringette skaters. The program expanded in 2002 and has been revised in 2018 to align with Long-Term Development of  Skate Canada, Hockey Canada and Ringette Canada. CanPowerSkate fits into the Learn to Train stage of the LTD.

Who is it for?

CanPowerSkate ideally incorporates skaters/ players at the “Golden Age of Learning” (ages 9-12) to enhance their skating ability by teaching technique and efficiency, for quality execution. Skating is a physical literacy skill that is required for ice sports. Prior to playing hockey or ringette, players should have acquired basic skating skills. The CanPowerSkate program does not serve as a learn to skate program. The CanPowerSkate curriculum was designed as a transitional program advancing from the CanSkate program. It specifically focuses on skating skills that are essential for the games of hockey and ringette and is inclusive of goalies and athletes with disabilities (including sledge skaters, adults and other skaters.

Who teaches it?

Besides having valid First Aid, a clear police screening, complete the Skate Canada Code of Ethics, complete Respect in Sport training and be at least 16 years of age; our coaches have also achieved the following (many coaches will have continued to pursue higher levels of coaching as well);

• Online CanPowerSkate Pre- course
• 2 day course including; on ice assessment, course workbook and classroom workbook, knowing how to apply the skills to game situations
• Complete multi- sport training by the province including making ethical decisions, planning a practice, teaching and learning, coaching athletes with a disability

Finally, our coaches have to complete mentorship hours with a certified coach, submit their coaching philosophy, goals and puck/ ring philosophy for evaluation. They will then submit two CanPowerSkate lessons focussed on technique via video as well as a practice plan for assessment before becoming certified. Your skater is in good hands!

 

What can you expect?

Coaches will lead skaters through a warm up to increase the core temperature of the body and review skills from previous lessons, provide lesson time in each of the three fundamental areas, development time to challenge the skater’s development of skills learned and a cool down time to lower the heart rate, increase range of motion and stretch muscles.  

 

What do you need to participate?

Full hockey equipment is mandatory including a stick.

 

What will you learn?

What are the next steps?

 

Your learning never ends. We know that having the “figure skating edge” assists all hockey and ringette players. The St. Thomas Skating Club can provide continued training throughout your career.