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STARSkate 

 
STARSkate is Skate Canada's standard figure skating program.  It offers athletes of all ages the opportunity to develop fundamental figure skating skills in freeskate, skating skills, ice dance, artistic, and synchronized skating. 
 
Unique to Canada, STARSkate teaches the sport using group, semi-private and private lesson formats in a progressive  and sequential manner.  Skaters have the opportunity to take Skate Canada tests in 10 stages and compete at local, provincial, national and international levels.  Those up for the challenge can also switch over to Skate Canada's Podium Pathway program, which is the route to elite levels and the Olympics.
Skaters are supported by our NCCP-certified coaches (provincial to national levels), choreography consultants, dance instructors, fitness instructors, and guest coaches/ consultants.  
 
Off-ice Classes
The club enhances STARSkate with the following off-ice classes.  They are designed to support the skills, techniques, athletic development and artistry needed on ice.  All skaters are strongly encouraged to participate.  Running shoes are mandatory.
  • Off-ice harness
  • Jump technique
  • Cardio and fitness

 

STARSkate Programming (STARSkate):

  • Skaters must have completed the CANSkate program or have had an individual assessment by the Head Coach in order to pursue STARSkate programming.
  • Head Coach approval must be acquired prior to registering in STARSkate, Pre-Academy, or Academy programs.

 

STARSkate Lessons:

  • Lessons may be provided to skaters by any of the NCCP certified coaches within Whitecourt Skating Club.
    • Coaches are capable of teaching these skills either one on one, semi-private or to small groups of skaters.
  • Skaters typically receive 10 minutes of lesson time per on-ice session, with the expectation of practicing independently for the remainder of the session.
    • Lesson schedules are built around coach availability and ice time: not every skater will receive a lesson every session.
    • Lesson frequency may increase as additional disciplines and/or solos are added to a skater's repertoire.
  • The coaching staff will recommend an appropriate plan for lessons to ensure skaters experience all disciplines while also achieving their individual goals.

 

STARSkate Solos:

  • The coach will determine when a skater is ready for their solo.
    • Skaters typically begin with a STAR 2 Freeskate program; Artistic programs and short Freeskate programs come at higher STAR levels.
    • The Freeskate solo will consist of different jumps and spins with interconnecting footwork and stroking, choreographed to music the coach finds suitable for the skater.
  • A one-time fee will be charged by the coach to develop the music for the solo for your child.
  • Solo costumes are the responsibility of each skater's family.

 

STARSkate Equipment:

  • STARSkate participants no longer require a non-expired CSA-approved helmet. 
  • Good equipment is important for comfort and safety, as well as ensuring effective progress. 
  • Skates should be sharpened regularly.
    • All skates need sharpening approximately every 20 hours.
    • It is recommended that figure skates be sharpened by a trained professional.
  • Skate guards are highly recommended.
    • Guards protect the skate blade from dulling and should be worn while walking on all surfaces. 
  • Skate blades and the sole plate should be dried completely with a cloth after skating.
    • Always remove guards before storing skates to prevent rust and air boots after each use.