New to speed skating? Start here.
Whether you're just learning to stand on skates or already zipping around the rink, we have a spot for you.
How to join
Four steps to the ice.
Pick a program
New skaters usually start in Learn to Skate, Learn to Speed Skate, or Masters. Pick the one that fits below.
Register online
Complete the registration form and pay by e-transfer. Discounts available for families with multiple skaters and for additional weekly sessions.
Get fitted for skates
The club rents speed skates for the season. Skate fitting is scheduled with Coach Mike before your first practice.
Arrive early on day one
On your first practice, arrive a bit early and bring your required safety gear. Someone from the club will greet you and help you get oriented.
Choose your path
Which program is right for me?
Most new skaters start in Learn to Skate or Learn to Speed Skate. Age ranges are guides. There’s overlap, and our coaches can help place you if it isn’t obvious. Competitive is by coach placement, not direct signup.
Typically ages 4–12
Learn to Skate
New to skating. Bring your own skates (hockey or figure) and learn the basics in a fun, low-pressure group.
1× / week · Chedoke
Typically age 6+
Learn to Speed Skate
Comfortable on the ice and ready for speed skates. The club rents skates; you learn the fundamentals of short-track.
1–3× / week · Chedoke + Sherman
Typically age 11+
Competitive
For skaters with multiple years of speed skating experience. Placement is by the head coach. It isn't a program new skaters sign up for directly.
1–4× / week · Chedoke + Sherman
Adults (18+)
Masters
Open to skaters 18+ in our Tuesday sessions.
1× / week · Sherman
See the Programs page for full detail on every program.
Important
Full-season commitment. We don’t offer drop-in or trial sessions.
Speed skating takes time to click. Committing for the season gives skaters the space to actually progress.
What you’ll need
Bring your safety gear. The club handles skates.
- Learn to Skate: head, hand, shin, and knee protection.
- Learn to Speed Skate and above: full safety gear.
- See the equipment guide and the skate-care FAQ for details.
A club parent
“Our kids started out in Learn to Skate, and now they’re racing against teammates at competitions who have become close friends and fierce rivals.”
Schedule
When we’re on the ice.
Programs don’t all skate on every day. You pick your times during registration.
After you register
What happens between your form and day one.
Join the mailing list
You'll automatically be added on registration. Keep an eye out for schedule changes and facility closures.
WhatsApp group
The phone number you register with is added to the club's WhatsApp group for day-to-day communication.
Skate fitting
If you're renting skates, the equipment manager reaches out to get you fitted before your first practice.
First practice
Your first-practice date and arena will be confirmed by email after registration. Arrive a bit early on the day. Someone from the club will greet you.
Common questions
What newcomers ask us.
Getting started
Do you offer a trial or drop-in session?
No. We don't offer drop-in or trial sessions. We encourage skaters to commit for a season to really feel the progress. Speed skating takes time and persistence, but it's rewarding once it clicks.
How young can kids start?
Learn to Skate is typically for kids age 4–12 who are new to the ice. Learn to Speed Skate is for kids already comfortable on skates (typically age 6+). Our coaches help place skaters when the fit isn't obvious.
Do I need my own skates?
For Learn to Skate, bring your own skates. Hockey or figure skates both work. For Learn to Speed Skate and above, the club rents speed skates for the season.
What safety gear is required?
See the equipment guide for the full required-gear list by program.
What about concussion safety?
The club follows Rowan’s Law, Ontario’s concussion safety legislation for amateur sport. If you suspect a concussion at practice or at a meet, tell the coach right away. The Ontario government publishes Concussion Awareness Resources that every athlete and parent should review.
Where do you practice?
Chedoke Arena in Hamilton (91 Chedmac Dr) and F.H. Sherman Arena in Stoney Creek (388 First Rd East). Different programs run at different arenas.
When does the season run?
Mid-September to late March. Returning skaters start a week or two before new skaters; F.H. Sherman ice begins in October. Exact dates are confirmed on the club mailing list.
During the season
Do we have to attend every practice?
No. Skating at least twice a week helps progress, but you don't have to hit every session. If you need to miss one, you can attend an alternate session with prior notice so we have enough coaches.
Can I swap skate sizes mid-season?
Yes. Ask Coach Mike.
Can I add extra sessions later in the season?
Yes. Additional weekly sessions can be added partway through the season at a prorated fee.
Is racing required?
No, not all skaters race. We run an official Christmas party race and an end-of-season race that give a low-key taste of competition.
Skate care
How often do skates need sharpening, and who does it?
Speed skates need hand sharpening, and the coaches handle it. Ask a coach before or after practice when your skates feel dull. Don't take them to a local rink or big-box store.
How do I take care of the blades after practice?
Dry your skates off right after every practice. Speed skate blades are very high-carbon and rust fast, really fast. (And Mike will know.)
When do I wear hard guards?
Always, anytime you're walking around with your skates on the ground. Hard guards protect the blade from concrete, mats, and anything else off-ice.
What about between practices?
Once you're done skating and have dried the blades, swap the hard guards for soakers (soft cloth covers). Blades sitting in hard guards stay damp all day, which is exactly how rust starts. Soakers wick the moisture away and keep the blade in much better condition.
Cost, volunteering, and contact
How much does it cost?
The cost depends on the sessions you choose during registration. Payment is by e-transfer; details are sent after registration.
Do parents volunteer?
Yes. The club is volunteer-run. Help with safety mats is required before and after practice, and parents pitch in at club-hosted meets.
Who runs the club?
The club is run by a parent-led board and a team of volunteers. Head coach Mike Murray is a CAC-certified National Level Coach, supported by a team of volunteer coaches.
Still have questions?