What is a Program Assistant (PA)?

Program Assistants (PAs) are currently registered members of Skate Canada/Skate Ponoka who help teach our younger skaters in the PreCanSkate, CanSkate, and PowerSkate programs. PAs can be seen in their red jackets (provided by the club for the duration of the season and returned at end of season) on these sessions working with younger skaters under the direction of our professional coaches. To qualify to assist as a PA, it is suggested by Skate Canada that PAs be over the age of 11 with the ability to demonstrate basic skating skills (e.g. STAR 3 assessment level), and must attend the annual orientation / training session provided by Skate Ponoka. Skate Ponoka, however, will accept StarSkaters with a completed Star 2 assessment, and will have a PA role assignment with younger skaters(Pre-CanSkaters). PAs may vary in skating background as they may be drawn from several groups including: current skaters, former skaters and skaters from other sports (hockey, ringette, speed skating). Program Assistants can receive community service hours towards their high school curriculum, and receive credits towards Skate Ponoka skating/registration fees in the following year.

 

What are the Benefits of Being a Program Assistant?

●  To develop Leadership skills in skaters

●  To encourage skaters to contribute their time and effort back to the sport/club

●  Rewarding experience of learning to be a role model for younger skaters

●  Provide coaching experience

●  Teach the importance of being a volunteer

●  Volunteer experience for a resume, scholarships, references, or volunteer hours for school credit

●  Lots of FUN!

 

What Skillset is needed to be a Program Assistant (PA)?

●  Good communicators and demonstrators

●  Enthusiastic and creative

●  Team players and good role models

●  Responsible and reliable

●  Patient

●  Punctual, prepared and organized

●  Able to lead groups, encourage skaters and offer praise/encouragement and feedback

●  Able to keep skaters moving while having fun

 

What is the role of a Program Assistant?

● Assist or lead warm-ups, group activities or cool-downs

● Lead circuits and rotations, demonstrate skills

● Assist with the set-up of circuits and stations

● Provide assistance to skaters who may have additional needs

● Time speed skills

● Provide general assistance to the coaches on the session

● Provide general assistance to the coaches on the session

 

A PA's role does not include:

● Delivering lessons at a designated teaching station

● Instructing skills

● Assessing skills

 

What if I am Interested in becoming a Program Assistant?

●  Complete the Program Assistant Application Form (due Sept. 29, 2026) Located under the "Program Assistant" Tab

●  Attend the mandatory Program Assistant Training on Wed.Oct. 7, 2026. @ 4:45-6:00

●  If you have questions contact Coach Lois Spate or Coach Donna Horlock