Coaches
Coach Pathway
On-Ice Helper
Most coaches start as on-ice helpers. Before beginning speed skating-specific coaching courses, helpers are strongly encouraged to take on-demand eLearning modules including: Coach Initation in Sport, Safe Sport, Make Ethical Decisions, and Making Head Way in Speed Skating.
FUNdamentals Leader
This coaching course, delivered online or in-person, is intended for active skaters and parents looking to work as assistant coaches for Learn to Skate, Learn to Speed Skate and introductory speed skating programs. Over the course of one day, attendees will be equipped with the necessary tools to work with a small group of skaters teaching basic skating skills in a safe, fun, and welcoming environment.
FUNdamentals Coach
This 8-module coaching course, delivered in a hybrid online and in-person format, is intended for individuals who wish to assume the role of head coach for Learn to Speed Skate and introductory speed skating programs which are primarily focused on skill development with skaters participating only in local/regional competitions. The course will provide coaches with foundational knowledge and understanding of speed skating technique, equipment, and practice planning in order to be able to design and lead an effective Learn to Speed Skate and/or introductory speed skating program focused on skill development and fundamental movement skills.
Introduction to Competition
This 10-module coaching course, delivered in a hybrid online and in-person format, is focused on providing coaches with the tools necessary to support athletes in training and competition in the Learning to Train and Training to Train stages of development, with an emphasis on technical development and seasonal and practice program design. Topics covered include: introduction to biomechanics and basic race tactics, basic seasonal training programs and designing practice plans, as well as further exploration of the development of basic mental skills, sport nutrition, and equipment.
Competition Development
This coaching course, delivered online, prepares coaches to be the head coach of skaters in the Training to Train, Learning to Compete and Training to Compete stages of development. The course focuses on a deeper understanding of principles learned in the Intro to Comp workshop.
Coach Development
coach certification
The formal coaching system used in speed skating is the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP), which is jointly administered by the Coaching Association of Canada and Speed Skating Canada. NCCP education includes sport-specific knowledge, general sport sciences information, teaching and learning tips, and safety considerations.
coach recognition
All coaches have a place to grow our speed skating community. Speed Skating BC recognizes Community Sport FUNdamental Leaders to Competition Development coaches.
Resources
Prepare for the skating season and design innovative and appropriate speed skating programs for all levels while following Speed Skating Canada safety and NCCP regulations.
