Frequently Asked Questions

What programs does the Pincher Creek Skating Club offer? We offer 2 main programs: Canskate and Starskate. Each program is designed to cater to different skill levels and interests in skating. Last season we introduced a synchro program, and this season we are launching a new noon hour adultskate.

 What is Canskate, and who is it for? Canskate is our learn-to-skate program, perfect for beginners of all ages, from children to adults. It focuses on the fundamental skills needed for all types of skating, including figure skating, hockey, ringette, and recreational skating. No prior experience is necessary.

What is Starskate? Starskate (Skills, Tests, Achievement, and Recognition) is a figure skating program for those who have completed Canskate. It focuses on figure skating skills, including jumps, spins, and footwork. Starskate participants can choose to pursue tests and competitions.

Who is Starskate for? Starskate is for skaters who are interested in figure skating and have a desire to develop their skills further. It’s ideal for skaters who want to progress beyond the basics and explore the sport of figure skating.

What is Synchro? Synchro, or Synchronized Skating, is a team-based skating program where groups of 8 to 16 skaters perform routines together on the ice. It emphasizes teamwork, precision, and choreography.

Do I need to have prior skating experience to join these programs? 

1. CanSkate: No prior experience is needed; it’s perfect for beginners or skill development. Canskate is divided into 2 levels, pre-Canskate and CanSkate. If you aren’t sure which program to register in, let us know, our coaches can guide you.

2. Starskate: Completion of Canskate is recommended. Our coaches will let you know when a skater is ready to transition from Canskate to Starskate

3. Synchro: Some skating experience is required, and participants typically are registered in a STARSkate program at the same time.

4. Adultskate: This program is for all levels, whether you are learning to skate, want to get some exercise, or work on figure skating test skills.  

What equipment do I need to participate? 

1. Canskate: Skaters need hockey or figure skates, a CSA-approved helmet, gloves, and warm, comfortable clothing. 

2. Starskate, Adultskate, & Synchro: Figure skates are required, along with appropriate skating attire. A helmet may be required depending on the skater’s age and level.

How do I register for a program? Registration can be completed online through our website or in person at the rink during designated registration times. Specific details, including program schedules and fees, can also be found on our website.

What are the age ranges for each program? 

1. Canskate: Open to all ages, from young children to teens.

2. Starskate: Typically for children and teens, though adults can also participate.

3. Synchro: This can vary depending on the level of the team. Please contact Coach Kim with questions.

Where can I buy skates? For Canskate, you can purchase skates from many different retailers, including Walmart and Canadian Tire, as well as sport stores like Bert and Macs in Lethbridge. For hockey skates, CCM and Bauer are good brands. For figure skates, Jackson is a good brand for beginners. Bert and Macs also sells used skates that are suitable for Canskate and Junior Starskate. Once your skater transitions to Starskate, you will want to ensure they are in a figure skate (blades with picks) with adequate support. Jackson and Riedell are good brands that are still reasonably priced. Once a skaters reaches a higher level (working on axels), you will probably need to transition to a higher quality boot, which usually means purchasing the blades separately.  You'll want to visit an experienced skate shop. ProSkate and the Skate Lab in Calgary are both good options, as well as United Cycle in Edmonton. Once you get to this level, please chat with your coach before buying skates. 

Where can I get my skates sharpened? When your skaters in Canskate, you can get your skates sharpened at any sports store, or by local sharpeners like Gary's Blades, Janet Jones (drop off at Ranchland Liquor) or K Sharpening. Once you skater has moved into figure skating, you'll want to use a sharpener with experience with figure skates. Darren Gillet is a retired coach in Lethbridge that sharpens skates, or you can go to ProSkate or Skate Lab in Calgary. 

What is the Skate Canada Membership Fee? The Skate Canada Membership fee ($61.65 for the 2025/26 season) is a mandatory fee that all skaters pay annually. The fee covers you for all Skate Canada programs at any club for the whole season, from Sept 1 of each year, until August 31 of the next year. Once we register a skater with Skate Canada, we are not able to be refunded for that fee, which is why it is non-refundable. All skaters are assigned a unique Skate Canada number that will follow your skater for life, even if you register with a different club in the future.

Who can I contact for more information? If you have any more questions or need assistance, please send us an email - pinchercreekskatingclub1@gmail.com