Figure Skating Program

Edge Launches Figure Skating Program for 2011/12

Starting in 2011/12, the Edge Figure Skating Program will provide skaters in Grades 5-9 with a complete training program both on and off the ice. With extensive support from the Edge Academic team for academic-athletic integration, it is our mission to develop students to their fullest potential providing them with a unique experience and training program. Integrated with the Edge Dance Program, Edge figure skaters will benefit from a well-established network to expose them to a world class training team through workshops and guest instructors. The coach to student ratio is a maximum of 1:10 on ice training.

The Edge Figure Skating Program is based on the same comprehensive training model as the one used by World Champion Patrick Chan. Patrick is one of the only skaters to have a comprehensive team comprised of a skating coach, athletic trainer, movement coach, dance teacher (ballet and modern) nutritionist, and sports psychologist. This team has led him to become the current world champion and to consistently land a quad jump. Patrick credits this achievement to his team but particularly believes that it was his off-ice movement class (dance teacher) that enabled this achievement. Congruent with this philosophy, the Edge Figure Skating program will feature four components:

• technical on-ice skills component
• off-ice training with artistic development and body awareness through dance classes / lectures
• strength and conditioning with high performance training to increase power, fitness and prevent injury
• sport psychology and nutrition support

This program is unique to Edge students providing young skaters with an integrated education, combining the best in both skating and academics in a well-balanced program. The Edge allows you to maximize potential by training during the day and experiencing competitive figure skating via community programs outside of school. The Edge Figure Skating Program will not test or offer Can-Skate programs.

Program Features

On-Ice

The on-ice training program allows students to develop and master their technical skills. The training sessions held three (3) times a week will cover:

• Figures
• Stroking
• Spins
• Turns
• Transitions
• Creative Movement

High Performance Training

Working under the direction of Andy O'Brien, Director of High Performance Training (DPC) and his team, figure skating program students will receive additional training to increase power, fitness and prevent injury. These sessions, held twice (2) a week will include:

• Core stability
• Strength training
• Aerobic and Anaerobic Training
• Flexibility
• High Performance Individual Programs

Off-Ice Training

The integration with the Edge Dance & Performing Arts Program gives figure skating students access to comprehensive artistic development and body awareness (once weekly).

• Ballet
• Alignment
• Jumps
• Movement Analysis
• Flexibility
• Choreography
• Artistic development

Nutrition and Mental Preparation

• Students will be guided by our Sports Psychology Consultant, Dr. Matt Brown, as they learn techniques to advance their training and performance outcomes.
• Students receive nutrition lectures and programs

Faculty & Guest Teachers (2011/12)

Figure skating program students will work with the core team at Edge school, in addition to industry renowned guest instructors through workshops during the school year.

Edge Faculty

• Andy O'Brien, Director High Performance Training (also Patrick Chan’s trainer)
• Cyndi Scott, Artistic Director of Edge Dance Program will work with students for dance and artistic development
• Sheri Drewitz-Kanten, Associate Dance Director, Ballet Director, RAD RTC will work with skaters for Ballet
• Dr. Matt Brown - Sports Psychology

Guest Faculty

• Patrick Chan - Patrick will work with skaters in a workshop format.
• Brian Foley - Brian Foley is a well respected skating choreographer and technician. His workshops will advance our skaters in their technical lines and patterns. Mr. Foley will work with our skaters in a multi-day workshop in both the fall and spring semesters.