CanPowerSkate Programs

Welcome to our PowerSkate program pathway! Our CanPowerSkate programs are designed to support skaters at various stages of their hockey development — from first-time players working on foundational skills to competitive athletes refining advanced techniques.

We offer three progressive levels of CanPowerSkate, each based on skill, not age. Please carefully read each program description before registering.

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Entry CanPowerSkate

 

Recommended for: Skaters working toward early hockey readiness

This introductory-level program is ideal for skaters who are building the fundamental skills needed to transition into hockey. Focus areas include balance, stride development, basic stops, and turning.

Skaters must be able to:

• • Skate forward the length of the rink with alternating strides

  • Show some ability to skate backward

  • Stop independently (snowplow or hockey stop)

  • Maneuver around obstacles without assistance

Typical age range: U7–U9
Placement is based on skill, not age.

Equipment Required:

• • Full hockey gear, including a CSA-approved hockey helmet and stick

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Intermediate CanPowerSkate

 

Recommended for: Developing hockey players with growing confidence and control

This program is for skaters who have mastered basic skills and are now working on power, speed, and controlled edge work. It supports players ready to refine their skating in preparation for more competitive play.

Skaters must be able to:

• • Skate forward with power and control using full strides

  • Skate backward with reasonable control

  • Perform basic edge work (e.g., C-cuts, crossovers)

  • Stop in both directions with control

  • Transition between forward and backward skating with balance

Typical age range: U9–U11
Placement is based on skill, not age.

Equipment Required:

• • Full hockey gear, including a CSA-approved hockey helmet and stick

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Advanced CanPowerSkate

 

Recommended for: Competitive and experienced players focused on enhancing speed, agility, and power

This high-level program challenges skaters to push their limits with advanced edge work, tight turns, pivots, explosive starts, and directional changes — all at game-level pace.

Skaters must be able to:

• • Demonstrate strong forward and backward skating using edges effectively

  • Execute tight turns, crossovers, and pivots with control

  • Perform advanced stops (e.g., inside and outside edge hockey stops)

  • Transition smoothly at high speed

  • Maintain balance during quick changes of direction

Typical age range: U11–U15 (ages 9–14)
Placement is based on skill, not age.

Equipment Required:

• • Full hockey gear, including a CSA-approved hockey helmet and stick

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📌 Important Notes

• • Coaching Assessment:
    Coaches may assess your skater and move them to a different group that better matches their current skill level.
    This ensures a positive and challenging learning environment for all participants.

  • Updated Program Names:
    We have recently updated the naming and structure of our CanPowerSkate levels.
    Please read all program descriptions carefully before registering.
    If you’re unsure about which level to choose, email us at registrar@sunshinecoastskatingclub.ca for guidance.