CanSkate

CANSKATE COORDINATOR: Rodolfo Guilherme

For those just joining the Markham Skating Club, our CanSkate program is based on Skate Canada’s CanSkate guidelines, and is coordinated under the watchful eye of Rodolfo Guilherme. Rodolfo has planned an exciting program with an exceptionally low skater-to-coach ratio, which delivers a safe and stimulating environment for beginner skaters 5 years old and up. Badges are awarded as skaters move toward more advanced Skate Canada programs in figure skating, ringette or hockey.

For the safety and well being of all of our CanSkate skaters, parents must stay in the arena where their child can see them at all times, and skaters should never be left at the arena alone.

Please note: skaters must attend the program on the same day each week. No exceptions or substitutions. Skate guards are mandatory and must be worn at all times when not on the ice surface.

Equipment for CanSkate:

  • CSA approved helmets are highly recommended for CanSkaters.
  • Skate guards are mandatory and must be worn at all times when skaters are not on the ice, including in the arena lobby.
  • When choosing skates, we recommend “lace-up” skates, as they provide the best support, allow proper movement, and accommodate adjustable fit. The skate’s boot must be firm, and must provide good support to the foot and ankle.
  • Skaters should dress warmly and comfortably to enjoy their skating experience and enhance their skating skills. Snow pants or nylon pants over top of layers of clothing are a good idea as they provide warmth and dryness during the session.

The 7 stages in the Skate Canada CanSkate are:

Stage 1: Balance
Stage 2: Glide
Stage 3: Glide Backward
Stage 4: Edges
Stage 5: Power
Stage 6: Speed
Stage 7: Pre-Preliminary

Click here for an outline of the Skate Canada CanSkate 7 Stages.

Communications:

Times and schedules are subject to change; whenever possible, notices will be posted on the MSC website, emailed to members and posted in the arena.

For this reason, please provide email addresses for every relevant individual in your family (consider all adults: include work and/or home contacts). If you do not have access to email, please be sure to check our website or the bulletin board in the lobby of the arena on a regular basis.

If you need to contact us, you can:

The Benefits of Continuing Your Child in Skating After CanSkate Stage 5

Those who have skated could write books on the benefits that skating has had on their lives. Our past skaters often speak of the positive impact that skating has had on their lives, including improved fitness, musicality and posture. “Tween” and teen skaters also exhibit greater confidence, time-management skills and self-motivation. Of course, skating is also a great way to socialize and have fun!

For a printable page of CanSkate Information click here.