Jessica Burtnick

Multimedia Journalist

Summer skate programs can help skaters maintain their form off-season, according to local instructor Leanne Woodcock.

There are two programs being offered by the Strathmore Figure Skating Club this summer, with the potential for a third if there is enough interest. Figure and power skate registration options are already available, with a beginner's program on the wish list.

"Figure skating's a really unique sport in that if you take off a week, it feels like you've never skated before," said Woodcock. "It's really tricky that way."

She would know. Woodcock has been skating since the age of three and has spent 27 years teaching, from Nova Scotia to Alberta, and in many places in between.

Today, she is a level two certified coach, and head coach at the Strathmore Figure Skating Club.

"You just have to have a lot of heart and desire," she said.

The figure skate programs are offered July 23-27 and July 30-August 3, from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Junior and senior participants will be on the ice at the same time during two 45-minute skate intervals, with a 15-minute nutrition break in the middle.

The deadline for figure skate registration is July 1, and is best-suited for ages five and up. The cost is $85 for one week of instruction, or $150 for two.

The power skate program, which targets hockey and ringette players, runs July 23-27 from 1-2 p.m.

The sessions integrate sports equipment into a series of drills to promote skill sets related to each sport.

"(Skaters) need to be a bit more advanced. They need to be able to skate," said Woodcock.

The deadline to register for the power skate program is June 30, and costs $65 for one week.

All skaters are required to provide their own skates and approved helmet.

According to its website, the club has over 120 skaters at present, but Woodcock said it is not uncommon for skaters from other clubs to join the programs.

She would also like to add a CanSkate program for first-time skaters and those just looking to improve their skills, if the numbers are there.

"That's something that's supposed to be on our bucket list, but we haven't gotten around to it," she said.

The focus would be on skating basics, such as forward and backward skating, once participants have mastered the art of just standing up on the ice.

For more information about the Strathmore Figure Skating Club or to express interest in the CanSkate program, email strathmoreskateclub@msn.com.