Each month 'In the Loop' will feature a helpful tip for Coaches & Administrators of the CanSkate program.  We are very excited for the launch of the NEW CanSkate program coming September 2012.  As a coach who participated in the pilot program I can attest to how great the changes to the program are. Thanks to a session layout which includes a fast track, fun zone, lively music, and circuits, our club registrations have almost tripled with more skaters returning and bringing their friends. Most importantly the new program is producing better quality skaters due to the focus on speed, edges, turns, stroking basics and skill progressions.  An on-line training module mandatory for all CanSkate coaches, plus new program information and materials will be available in August.  Check the Skate Canada website and email communications for updates.

July Tip: Drawing circuits on the ice can be simplified by using skill signs i.e. a Stop Sign attached to a toilet plunger.  Colorful and inexpensive plungers can be purchased at stores such as Dollarama & Jysk.  Ready - made skill signs is a new resource which will be available shortly on members only, just print and insert in a plastic sleeve or laminate.  This tip will save coaches time, back pain from bending over to draw a skill illustration, and skaters will keep their eye focus up to look at the elevated sign!!

If you have questions or if your club would like assistance with implementation of the new program, I can be reached at tammylg@shaw.ca.

Tammy Greidanus

CanSkate Resource Team Member 

On June 27, 2012, the new Canadian Sport Policy (CSP) was endorsed by Federal-Provincial/Territorial Ministers responsible for Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation at their meetings in Inuvik, NWT.  From the Press Release following the Ministers Meeting,

"... CSP 2012 is the successor policy to the first-ever Canadian sport policy (2002), which was approved in Iqaluit, Nunavut a decade ago, and is the result of extensive consultation and collaboration amongst the Government of Canada, the provinces and territories and Canada's sport and recreation communities.

CSP 2012 has been designed as a roadmap for all governments, institutions and organizations that are committed to contributing to the positive benefits and impacts of sport on Canadians, their communities and Canadian society, while respecting each government's jurisdiction. The vision for the Policy is to have, by 2022, a dynamic and innovative culture that promotes and celebrates participation and excellence in sport.

The policy includes five goals that address all forms of sport participation throughout Canada, with a desired outcome to see both the number and diversity of Canadians participating in sport increase throughout the policy's ten-year timeframe."

The Canadian Sport Policy can be found at www.sirc.ca/csprenewal.