CanSkate Questions

What Equipment is needed for CanSkate?

 

You must provide your own equipment: sharpened skates, CSA approved helmet (no bike or ski helmets), and skate guards.  It is a good idea for your child to wear warm clothes and mittens.

 

My child is older. Is it too late for them to learn how to skate? Will they be the only older skater on the ice?

 

It is never too late to learn how to skate! 

In our CanSkate sessions, we welcome skaters from 4-17 years old.  That being said, usually the range in ages is closer to 4-12 years.  However, with more newcomers moving to the area, we have seen an increase in 11-13 year olds (or older) enrolling. 

It is impossible for us to know how many "older" skaters will register in our CanSkate programs.  All ages and abilities will be on the ice during CanSkate, so if your child is really going to be bothered that there are young skaters on the ice, this might not be the best fit for them. 

 

How are skaters grouped?

 

We typically group the skaters initially by age, so older skaters would not be placed with the really little ones. Once the head coach has had some time to assess all the skaters, they may be moved to different groups based on skill level.  

In some cases, CanSkaters are invited to join our StarSkate (figure skating) program part way into the season.  This will depend on space in the program as well as some other factors. Ultimately this is at the discretion of the coaches.