Our Coaches
Coach Lois
Lead Pre-CanSkate Coach
You know you’ve been around for a few years, when you are now coaching the preschool children of your former pre-school skaters. Yes, I have been coaching with Skate Ponoka for 38 years, in various programs, most recently, Pre- CanSkate and StarSkate. Prior to receiving my certification as a coach, I trained and volunteered as a Skate Canada judge/evaluator for Primary Test Levels. In addition to coaching Pre-CanSkate, I serve as the Coach Representative on the Skate Ponoka Executive, a position I have had for many years. In 2017, I retired from my 28+ year career as a primary teacher/school administrator, with most of those years at Ponoka Elementary School. Currently, I continue to spend some time in the classroom as a substitute teacher. The greatest joy in coaching young skaters is seeing the huge smile on their face when they announce “I am doing it… I Can Skate!”
Contact Info
Email: lois.spate@gmail.com
Coach Donna
Lead CanSkate Coach
As I started writing this I realized that I have been part of the Skate Ponoka coaching team for almost 30 years! During that time I have coached CanSkate, StarSkate and Synchronized skating as well as serving on the executive for a number of years. I have also sewn costumes for many of our synchro teams, as well as individual skaters, and even a few coaches.
My favourite part of coaching is seeing the excitement on skaters faces when they learn and then master a new skill. As part of a small town club, I am lucky to be able to see skaters grow in the sport over the years. I especially love seeing our former skaters return to the rink with their own children. As well, many of our former CanSkaters are now starting their own coaching journey or are pursuing new passions on adult synchro teams. I am grateful to have been part of this lifelong love of skating.
Contact Info
Email: dghorlock@gmail.com
Donna makes and sells skating skirts!
Choose from ready made or contact Donna for custom orders.
Phone (403)783-8395 or email: skirtsbydonna@gmail.com
https://skatingskirtsbydonna.my.canva.site/
Coach Brydelle
StarSkate Coach|
I’ve been skating since I could walk and have been coaching for the past 11 years. I’m certified in CanSkate, STARSkate, and CanPower. This season, I’m coaching STARSkate, Synchro, and CanPower, and I’m excited to take on new challenges with the Skate Ponoka team!
I was a synchro skater for the past 7 years and love the team spirit it brings to the sport. My favorite part about coaching is seeing people of all ages try new things and build their skills in a healthy, active way. Outside the rink, I work as a Client Advisor, raise purebred Black Angus cattle, and show and rodeo with my horses. I’ve also been involved in 4-H since I was 9 and am now a 4-H leader. I’m looking forward to another great season and can’t wait to get synchro going again in Ponoka! |
Coach Emily
StarSkate Coach|
Hi, I’m Coach Emily! I have been part of Skate Ponoka for over 15 years and coaching for 8 years, beginning my journey in CanSkate and progressing through all disciplines, including synchronized skating. I hold Triple Gold in Dance, Skills, and Artistic (Interpretive), and continue to enjoy both competing and testing. In addition to coaching, I skate on a competitive synchronized skating team.
Coaching allows me to give back to the skating community that has given me so much—not only in skill development, but also in life lessons such as discipline and teamwork. My goal is to help skaters grow in both confidence and love for the sport. Outside of the rink, I enjoy swimming, hiking, and baking. I recently completed my Education degree and now work as a teacher, which keeps life both busy and fulfilling. Contact Info
Email: iamemilydavid@gmail.com |
Coach Sara
StarSkate Coach|
Skate Ponoka has been my home club for many years, having participated in the CanSkate and StarSkate programs as a skater for 15 years, and now having coached with the club for over 20 years. As a StarSkate Test skater, I achieved Quad Gold/Diamond Test Levels as well as training and competing in StarSkate Triathlon evens and competitive ice dance events with my ice dance partner. I also spent many years training in off-ice dance taking classes in ballet, jazz, contemporary, and hip hop. Outside of skating, I am employed full-time as a physiotherapist. In my spare time I enjoy international travel. Coaching is an opportunity to give back to a sport that I love, and my goal as a coach is to install a love of skating so skaters participate in the sport of fun, fitness, and achievement of skills.
Contact Info
Email: saraspate87@gmail.com |
Program Assistants
CanSkate Assistants|
Program Assistants (PAs): Coaches are assisted by advanced skaters called Program Assistants. PA's must participate in annual training and meet age or Skate Canada test requirements. We would appreciate it if you did not approach PAs with questions or concerns but rather direct them to professional coaches or club executive members.
We appreciate each and every one of our PA's!
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