“The feeling of flowing through each movement on the ice and knowing that I’m doing something so unique – something no other sport/athlete does”
Meet some of Airdrie’s skating sensations who demonstrate their winning attitudes both on and off the ice as members of the Airdrie Skating Club.
What do you love most about skating?
Emily: competing and showing what I can do
Sarah: ice dance
Ben: staying fit
Emma: landing a jump
Shelby: The feeling of flowing through each movement on the ice and knowing that I’m doing something so unique – something no other sport/athlete does. I also love the jumps and the artistry associated with figure skating.
Tanisha: trying new things
Peyton: Feeling accomplished when you are able to do the skills and jumps you are learning. Also hearing people cheer for you and support you.
Jaden: I love doing my jumps; skating makes me feel good inside.
Heather: performing
What is the hardest part about being a skater?
Emily: injuries
Sarah: finding motivation after failure
Emma: falling
Shelby: In everything you do in figure skating there are so many components and details to know and learn how to correct and change to improve – it’s very complicated! Also how the jumps are so difficult and they come and go – one minute you can land a jump and the next day you can’t land that same jump.
Tanisha: after continuously falling, having to push yourself to keep trying
Peyton: the off-ice training and getting over your fears of getting hurt and not being able to skate again
Jaden: being able to express emotions in your solos
Heather: getting through competitions or stressful moments
What makes you feel most successful on ice?
Emily: skating a clean program and good support from my coach
Sarah: when I pass a test
Ben: being on the ice and doing my best
Emma: when I reach my goals, whether it’s being on the podium or landing a jump for the first time in competitions, and when I can celebrate the successes of my team
Shelby: when I am able to finally get something, whether it’s a jump or a spin after working on it for a long time. Also the encouragement I get from other skaters!
Tanisha: any time you accomplish a new skill
Peyton: when your friends, coaches and fellow skaters applaud and cheer you on
Jaden: landing my jumps
Heather: when I have my skating friends beside me
The Airdrie skating community includes all ages and interests. With a membership of approximately 900 per season, the Airdrie Skating Club is one of the largest in Alberta. Programs include basic for anyone who wants to learn (all age levels), as well as power skating programs that enhance the existing minor hockey and ringette organizations at all levels. In addition, the club supports and trains figure skaters with national guidelines to optimal ideal training environments. Most of the club’s figure skaters will enter a competition each season once they are past their first year of training.
Our skaters
Emily Frost, 11 (started at age 3); Level: Star 5
Sarah Dolhun, 14 (started at age 5); Level: Star 5
Benjamin Vatcher, 12 (started at age 4); Level: Star 3
Emma Schill, 11 (started at age 2); Level: Star 5
Shelby Doel, 15 (started at age 4); Level: Star 4
Tanisha Halvorson, 13 (started at age 3); Level: Star 4
Peyton Stankevich, 11 (started at age 4); Level: Star 2
Jaden Kasper, 10 (started at age 7); Level: Pre- Juvenile
Heather Nunn, 10 (started at age 6); Level: Star 4
