Coaches

Guiding and leading the next generation of skaters, coaches make all the difference. Learn more about the training, education and certification programs that provide coaches with the skills needed to help every skater do their best.

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NCCP Coaching Courses

The National Coaching Certification Program is the formal coaching system, administered by the Coaching Association of Canada and Speed Skating Canada. 

coach pathway

Feel free to take which certifications and levels appeal to you and your goals as a coach.

  • Many coaches start by helping out on the ice. Before moving on from this point, we recommend taking eLearning modules such as: Coach Initiation in Sport, Safe Sport, Respect in Sport, Make Ethical Decisions and Making Head Way in Speed Skating.

  • Delivered online or in-person. This course is intended for active skaters and parents looking to work as assistant coaches for introductory speed skating programs (Learn to Skate, Learn to Speed Skate). Learn the necessary tools to work with a small group of skaters and teach basic skating skills in a safe and fun environment.

  • An 8-module coaching course in a hybrid online and in-person format. This is for individuals who want to be a head coach for Learn to Speed Skate and introductory speed skating programs. Learn the foundational knowledge and understanding of speed skating technique, equipment, and practice planning to effectively teach introductory speed skating programs focused on skill development.

  • A 10-module coaching course delivered in hybrid online and in-person format. Learn the necessary tools to support athletes in raining and competition in the Learning to Train and Training to Train stages of development. Topics include: introduction to biomechanics and basic race tactics, basic seasonal training programs, designing practice plans and further exploration of mental skills development, sport nutrition and equipment.

  • Delivered online. This course prepares coaches to the be head coach of skaters in the Training to Train and Training to Compete stages of development.