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Spring is in the air – which means it’s time for our spring raffle!
Tickets are 1 for $20, 3 for $50. Only 500 tickets printed! Draw date Saturday, June 18, 2023, 3:00pm, Multiplex Arena
First Prize: Pit Boss BBQ, meat and propane package. Value $2,050 Second Prize: Two tickets YK Calgary return, valid till June/24. Value $1,300 Third Prize: Jiffy® 4G™ Gas Powered 49cc 4-Stroke Ice Drill. Value $750
YKSSC speed skaters will be selling tickets in person at Coop Grocery Store: – Sunday, May 7 – Saturday, May 20 – Saturday, June 3 – Saturday, June 7
Or to purchase tickets via e-transfer, please follow these instructions:
1. Send an email to ykspeedskating@gmail.com. Tell us your: – Name – Phone number – Address – City* – Email – Number of tickets you want to buy
* If you live outside Yellowknife or the surrounding area, shipping for any of these prizes will be at your own expense and is not the responsibility of YKSSC.
2. Send your e-transfer for the amount of tickets you requested in your email, to the same address: ykspeedskating@gmail.com. Please use the password Yellowknife
Once we receive both emails, we will fill out your ballots for the box on your behalf and text you a photo of your ticket stubs/numbers.
Thank you to our community partners and you for your support! – Home Hardware Yellowknife – Yellowknife Direct Charge Coop – Canadian North – Ron’s Equipment Rental & Industrial Supply
As a result of lost ice time during the City of Yellowknife’s labour dispute, the YKSSC Executive has determined that it will apply the following rebates during the 2023-2024 registration period for skaters previously registered for the 2022-2023 season: LTS & SS1 – $45/skaterSS2 – $110/skaterSS3 – $135/skater Comp – $210/skater. The Executive thanks you for your patience during these difficult circumstances.
The YKSSC Schools Ability Meet will take place Saturday, November 26, 2022. Registration is open now and will close November 18, 2022. More information and a link to register can be found on the Ability Meet page.
Happening Saturday, October 22 and Sunday, 23, 2022, this is a great way to have a friend join you on the ice, or for anyone to come try out our speed skate classes (and even try on a pair of speed skates if you are older)! Find out more about when your age group is invited to join us on the ice!
Speed skates can be rented from the YKSSC for a cost of $125 per season (additional cheque of $125 is required as deposit). If you are looking to rent skates, come by our locker room at the Multiplex (back room of the Ed Jeske ice surface) on Tuesday, September 13 from 7:45 to 9:00 pm, or Sunday, September 18 from 3:45 to 5:00 pm. If neither of these times work, please contact our skate coordinators at ykspeedskating@gmail.com for skate rental arrangements.
Registration for Learn-to-Skate, SS1, SS2, SS3 and Competitive Skating is now open. Visit our registration page for more information and how to register.
All skaters must be registered before getting on the ice. We are looking forward to seeing our skaters back on the ice and welcoming new ones to our great club!
If you want to register in person or ask us questions about our programs, please visit our table at the Yellowknife Community Showcase, Wednesday, September 14 (from 6:00 – 8:00) at the Multiplex gym.
YKSSC is calling for parents to volunteer to put their name forward to be on the board for the upcoming 22-23 season, which will be voted in at the AGM on May 15, 2022. We are looking to fill the role of Vice-President, Secretary and Fundraising Coordinator. These roles are vital to the structure of our club and it is very important we fill these seats for the upcoming season.
The commitment of our board is not much time – a board meeting once a month and then duties according to the position held. Your reward is helping ensure our club remains strong and continues to grow and prosper for your children (and other young Yellowknifers) in the future. Please reach out and let us know you can help for the upcoming season.
The NWTSSA will host annual territorial-wide meet for NWT Clubs on February 25 – February 27, 2022. This ability meet included all ages and abilities of skaters. Registration is now open and will close February 18, 2022.
Due to the YK Arena remaining closed for November and December we have had to adjust all our weekend ice times, and all classes will be held at Ed Jeske unless otherwise noted. Sorry for the changes!
Special 0: Monday 8:00pm to 9:00pm (Shorty Brown Rink) Comp: Tuesday and Thursday 7:30pm to 9:00pm, Saturday 7:30am to 9:30am SS3: Tuesday 6:30pm to 7:30pm, Sunday 1:30pm to 3:00pm SS2: Thursday 6:30pm to 7:30pm, Sunday 12:30pm to 1:30pm SS1 Group 1 (formerly known as SS1 Sunday) – Sunday 9:30am to 10:30am (start Nov 7) SS1 Group 2 (formerly known as SS1 Saturday) – Sunday 4:00pm to 5:00pm (starts Oct 31) LTS Group 1 (formerly known as LTS Sunday) – Sunday 8:30am to 9:30am (starts Nov 7) LTS Group 2 (formerly known as SS1 Saturday) – Sunday 3:00pm to 4:00pm (starts Oct 31)
We have received our exemption letter and are allowed to return to the ice starting Tuesday, October 26. What does this mean for you?
1. As a part of our exemption status, YKSSC is required to have checked the vaccination status of all our skaters and coaches over the age of 12 who are eligible for vaccination. Before any of our skaters or coaches who fall into this category can get on the ice, we must have this proof of vaccination for our records. Please email proof of vaccination for your skater, or yourself if you are a coach, to ykspeedskating@gmail.com before you get on the ice. If your skater is under 12, then no action is needed, however see #2 for you as their parent if you want to come into the Multiplex.
2. Anyone who enters a City facility, such as the Multiplex, is required to show proof of vaccination. So, aside from sending it to YKSSC as noted above, you might also need to show proof of vaccination for your skater, yourself as a coach, and/or yourself if you want to come in to volunteer or spectate. We are unsure when or how the City will start doing this but please be prepared tomorrow for the possibility of showing proof of vaccination at the door to get into the building.
Basically, YKSSC needs to comply with its exemption requirements and have proof of vaccinations. Separately, the City will do their job and check for proof of vaccination for their facility.Thank you!
Is your skater ready to try REAL speed skates? Speed skates can be rented from the YKSSC for a cost of $125 per season (additional cheque of $125 is required as deposit). They will come sharpened and ready to go!
We have a range of size available but limited quantities. Our amazing Skate Coordinators, Greg and Carla Skauge will be at Ed Jeske Arena at the Multiplex (in the back where our storage unit is) on the following dates for the indicated groups:
SS2 and SS3: Thursday, Sept 16 (7:30 – 8:30pm)
SS2 and SS3: Sunday, Sept 19 (3:30 – 4:30pm)
SS1: Thursday, Sept 30 (7:30 – 8:30pm)
If you can’t make one of these times, contact ykspeedskating@gmail.com to make other arrangements.
Registration for Learn-to-Skate, SS1, SS2, SS3 and Competitive Skating is now open. Visit our registration page for more information and how to register. Registration closes October 31, 2021 for all programs.
The NWTASSA annual Speed Skating Camp is scheduled for August 18-22, 2021. For more information check out the registration link, or contact Jody at nwtspeedskating@gmail.com. Registration deadline: July 31st.
Grand Prize: Clipper Tripper 17’6” Kevlar Canoe
Sponsor: Overlander Sports
Winner: Larrissa Stewart
2nd Prize: Camping Package worth $1000
Sponsors: Canadian Tire and Yellowknife Beverages
Winner: Jennie Rausch
3rd Prize: Wellness Package worth $700
Sponsors: Collective Soul Space and Anytime Fitness
Winner: Sarah Leonardis
Thank you to everyone for purchasing tickets and supporting the Yellowknife Speed Skating Club! We raised just over $5,000 for our skaters (10 years+) to travel to national competitions… hopefully next year again!
The club hasn’t had much opportunity for fundraising this year, but we also haven’t had any travel expenses! The YKSSC Board wanted to do a fundraiser in the community to raise awareness for our club and raise some travel money for next year. We are excited to announce our Spring Raffle, which will start March 6, 2021. We will draw for three prizes Sunday, May 14, 2021, 6:00pm, Multiplex Arena.
First Prize: Clipper Tripper 17’6” Kevlar Canoe. Value $3600
Second Prize: Camping Package. Value $1000
Third Prize: Wellness Package. Value $700
Justin will be reaching out to our SS3 and Comp skaters to sell tickets at the Coop on various dates over the next few months. We also need some parents to help with the transactions! We hope to sell 500 tickets, $20 each or 3 for $50. If you are not in SS3 or Comp and would like to help out, please email Justin at ykspeedskating.volu@gmail.com
Thank you to the local businesses for their donations and contributions – Overlander Sports, Collective Soul Space, Anytime Fitness, Canadian Tire, and Yellowknife Beverages.
This year, the NWTASSA will not be able to host its annual Championship in the usual format. Instead it will be hosting a virtual championship by asking local speed skating clubs to host standard territorial events each in their own facilities in a manner that conforms to applicable public health restrictions.
The Yellowknife Speed Skating Club is hosting events for its skaters on Sunday, March 7 and 14 at Ed Jeske Arena. Skaters will skate either March 7 OR 14. Skaters will be divided by age and in a manner to make them skate with skaters of the same skill level. See below for a breakdown of dates and times (ages are as of June 30, 2020). Your skater’s time/group will be confirmed once all the registrations are in and the groups are all made.
SUNDAY, March 7
Note that ALL regular scheduled lessons will be cancelled this weekend
12:45 to 1:15 – Rockets Group 1 (skaters 5 years old or younger or older SS1 skaters who are not ready to compete)
1:30 to 2:00 – Rockets Group 2 (skaters 5 years old or younger or older SS1 skaters who are not ready to compete)
2:15 to 3:40 – 6 to 9 years old competition – Group 1 (skaters will be grouped with skaters of comparable skill level and age)
4:00 to 5:25 – 6 to 9 years old competition – Group 2 (skaters will be grouped with skaters of comparable skill level and age)
SUNDAY, March 14
1:00 to 2:50 – 10 to 12 years old competition
3:15 to 5:45 – 13+ years old competition
Please confirm by Tuesday, March 2 (EXTENDED DEADLINE!), whether your skater(s) will be participating or not, to Marie-Eve at ykspeedskating.regs@gmail.com
If they are, please submit the following for each skater:
Saturday, October 31 is a the deadline to register for any of our Speed Skate classes. It is also the last day you can cancel your registration and request a refund of your registration fee. Thank you!
Registration for Speed Skate 1 (SS1) opens September 14 for an early October start date (TBD) at YK Arena. We have four SS1 classes this year: Saturdays 10-11 and 11-12; and Sundays 11-12 and 12-1. Only 17 skaters will be allowed to register for each of these classes, leaving room for 3 coaches and helpers.
SS1 is for kids approximately 5-8 years old. Starts, stops, basic position and technique are introduced by non-competitive games of sustained activity. Parents will not be allowed on the ice this year due to the NWTASSA Safe Return to Skate Guidelines.
Unfortunately, these programs will not be offered in the 2020-21 season. As per the NWTASSA Return To Ice Guidelines, there is a limed number of skaters we can have on the ice at a time. Therefore, YKSSC has decided to expand the SS1 sessions (to 4 sessions a week) and focus on maximizing the number of kids we can have skating on their own (without parent) on the ice. As per the guidelines, we also can not have people on the ice over the age of 19 without special permission or exception, which is why we can not offer the Adult Learn to Speed Skate program this year. We will continue to work on the guidelines for both of these Programs for the 2021-22 season in the case they are needed.
YKSSC takes the health and safety of all of our skaters, coaches and families very seriously. Due to the closure of all City of Yellowknife facilities (as of Wednesday, March 18) and to limit the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the Executive has made the difficult decision to cancel the remainder of the 2019-20 season, effective immediately.
YKSSC encourages skaters and families to take care of themselves and others by washing hands thoroughly, staying home if ill, helping neighbours in need, and social distancing where possible.
Stay tuned for our year end party and AGM, which we will have when we can all socialize again
Northwest Territories Amateur Speed Skating Association (NWTASSA) is accepting applications for a part-time sport administrator. Click here to download the job description. To apply, please email NWTASSA president, Alex Clinton at aclinton@theedge.ca. Closing date March 10, 2020.
The NWTSSA will host annual territorial-wide meet for NWT Clubs on February 29 – March 1, 2020. This ability meet included all ages and abilities of skaters. Registration is now open and will close February 14, 2020.
Mark your calendars for the NWT Champs Meet, scheduled for February 29 – March 1in Yellowknife. This meet is hosted by the NWTASSA and brings together all territorial clubs for an exciting two days of racing! Stay tuned for more details on volunteering and registration, which will likely open at the end of January.
AWG Trials for the Speed Skating NWT Team are happening Friday, January 24 (6:00 – 9:00 PM) and Saturday, January 25 (8:30 – 11:30 AM). Come out to Ed Jeske arena to watch some great races and cheer on our skaters!
If you are interested in helping out, we are still looking for some volunteers to make the Trials run as smoothly as possible. Martin will be holding an Officials course for anyone interested on Thursday January 23 from 7:00 – 9:30. Please contact Martin for more information.
On Saturday, November 30, 2019 the Club will be hosting its first meet of the season for all ages and abilities of skaters. The Ability Meet Information Flyer and Registration Form can be found on the Ability Meet page of our website. You can fill out the registration form on your computer and email it to ykspeedskating.reg@gmail.com or if you prefer you can print it out and give it to Jody or Myra. Deadline to register is Monday, November 18, 2019.
The registration fee of $20 (Rockets are FREE!) can be sent via EMT to ykspeedskating.regs@gmail.com. Please be sure to use the password “yellowknife” and indicate which skater your transfer is for. If you prefer, cash or cheque (make out to YKSSC) can be given to Jody or Myra.
Many volunteers are required to run this meet (set-up, timing, recording, lap-counting, water, runners, etc) so we need your help! Training and direction will be provided on Friday evening (November 29). If you are interested, please email Martin.
Thank you to Jana Dunn who is our Food Coordinator this year! If you can help us feed our volunteers on the Meet day, please send her an email.
As a fundraiser for the kids who travel to out-of-town meets, we will have a 50/50 Draw and Silent Auction during the Ability Meet. We have asked all skaters who travel to provide a new/used in good condition item for the Silent Auction. Please support their efforts and make some bids! If you are interested in contributing anything to this fundraiser, thank you very much and please let Martin know.
Interested in our club or have a friend who is interested in trying speed skating? Registered skaters will be invited to Bring-A-Friend to their regularly scheduled class and we will be inviting the general public to try out our club as well.
Bring-A-Friend Ages 8 – 12: September 22, 12:30 – 1:30 for SS2 and 1:30 – 2:30 for SS3
Bring-a-Friend Ages 6 – 8: October 19, 11:00 – 12:00 and October 20, 12:00 – 1:00
Open House Ages 8 – 12, Ed Jeske: September 22, 1:30 – 2:30
Open House Ages 6 – 8, YK Arena: October 19, 11:00 – 12:00
Coach Kerry will be holding an information meeting for parents with children in SSII, SSIII and Senior Comp who are interested travelling to out-of-town meets this season. This meeting will be held at Ed Jeske Arena, Sunday, September 29, 1:30 – 2:00pm.
A list of out-of-town meets will be provided at this meeting for you to consider. Other topics of discussion: we will ask who is interested in attending out-of-town meets and which ones, who might be interested in chaperoning and what those requirements are, and more. This is a great time to ask questions! If you can’t make the meeting and are interested in attending out-of-town meets this season, please talk to your coach and express your skater’s interest!
Fundraising helps to off-set the cost of out-of-town travel! If your skater is 10 or older, they can travel with the team to out-of-town meets. Throughout the year we will have fundraising opportunities for skaters and parents to participate in.
We have Co-op bagging dates already chosen! October 12, December 22 and April 11. All of these opportunities help off-set out-of-meet travel costs! More information will be provided soon to travelling skater families. To sign up for fundraising opportunities, please email Justin, our Fundraising Coordinator.
We have a variety of Club speed skates to rent! Skates are typically for SSII and SSIII skaters. We are excited to announce we just received 10 brand new pairs of skates sized 35 to 40! We also have limited smaller sizes suitable for SSI although they are not required at this level. The rental fee is $125 for the season plus a damage deposit of $125 (to be returned at the end of the season).
Skaters who need to rent speed skates can try on and pick up rental skates before the season starts during the following times:
Wednesday, September 4 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Thursday, September 5 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Tuesday, September 24 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Thursday, October 1 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Skates are rented from our locker room at the Multiplex (back room of the Ed Jeske ice surface). Please contact ykspeedskating@gmail.com if neither of these scheduled times work and you need to make other arrangements. Greg Skauge will continue as our Skate Coordinator this year. Thanks Greg!
As noted in our Skate Rental Policy, renters take responsibility for the proper care, maintenance and safe handling of the skates and blades during the rental season. It is recommended skates are sharpened monthly or every 5 -10 practices depending on skater’s size, ability and care of the blades. Your skates can be sharpened by one of our older skaters. If you need contact information for one of the Competitive Skaters (they sharpen skates for $10!), please look on our Facebook page or contact us for more information.
If you need skates for the camp, you can try on and pick up skates on Monday, August 19 and Tuesday, August 20 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm each night. Pick up dates and times for the regular season will be announced shortly!
Skates are typically for SSII and SSIII skaters. We are excited to announce we just received 10 brand new pairs of skates sized 35 to 40! We also have limited smaller sizes suitable for SSI although they are not required at this level.
Skates are rented from our locker room at the Multiplex (back room of the Ed Jeske ice surface). Please contact ykspeedskating@gmail.com if this scheduled time does not work and you need to make other arrangements (for the camp).
The cost of skates for the camp is $25. The rental fee for the season is $125 for the season plus a damage deposit of $125 (to be returned at the end of the season). If you are renting skates for NWTSSA camp, you can arrange to pay the additional fees and keep them for the year.
Greg Skauge will continue as our Skate Coordinator this year. Thanks Greg!
NWTSSA is holding their Speed Skate Camp, August 21 – 25, 2019. Camp involves five days of on-ice development and dry-land training under the supervision of expert guest coaches Kaylin Irvine and Jacob Graham.
If you need skates for the camp, the cost is $25. You can try on and pick up skates on Monday, August 19 and Tuesday, August 20 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm each night. Skates are rented from our locker room at the Multiplex (back room of the Ed Jeske ice surface). Please contact ykspeedskating@gmail.com if this scheduled time does not work and you need to make other arrangements.
Tell your friends!
Sunday, April 7, 2:00 – 3:30
Ed Jeske Rink, Multiplex
All ages welcome!
All participants must come with their own CSA-approved helmet, gloves and hockey skates. Figure skates are not permitted for speed skate practices. There will be a limited supply of speed skates available for guests to try at no cost.
All participants must sign a YKSSC waiver before getting on the ice. Anyone under the age of 18 needs to come with a parent or guardian or bring the signed waiver with them.
Registration is now open for NWT Champs, to be held March 8-10, 2019 in Yellowknife. Deadline to register is February 25, 2019. Find all the information you need to register on our NWT Champs page.
Please be sure to view our December schedule and note the days we have NO ICE. Note: there is a Christmas Camp for the Competitive Skaters, January 3-5, 2019.
After a relaxing holiday season, skaters should be ready to skate again starting on Thursday, January 3 for SS2 and Comp, Saturday, January 5 andSunday, January 6 for LTS/SS1, Monday, January 7 for Special O, and Tuesday, January 8 for SS3.
The Club is hosting a FREE skate for all its registered skaters and families to celebrate the holiday season. Please join us on Saturday, December 22 from 4:00 – 5:00 at the Shorty Brown Arena at the Multiplex for a fun skate, cookies, hot chocolate and a visit from the ‘Big Guy’ himself. All skaters must wear a helmet please!
The YKSSC Schools Ability Meet will take place Saturday, December 1, 2018. The Ability Meet Information Flyer and Online Registration Form can be found on the Ability Meet page of our website. Deadline to register is Friday, November 16.
The registration fee of $20 (Rockets are FREE!) can be sent via EMT to ykspeedskating.regs@gmail.com. Please be sure to use the password “yellowknife” and indicate which skater your transfer is for. If you prefer, cash or cheque (make out to YKSSC) can be given to Jody or Myra.
Volunteers are needed to make this event happen
Lots of on-ice and off-ice volunteers and officials are needed to run an event like this. If you are able to help, please email Martin. If you are interested in being the Food Coordinator, please email the Ability Meet Coordinator (Jody).
Remember to get your skates sharpened before the meet
You can drop your skates off with one of the Sr. Competitive skaters during their Sunday ice time. The cost is $10.
As a fundraiser for the kids who travel to out-of-town meets, we will have a Silent Auction during the Ability Meet. We have asked all skaters who travel to provide a new/used in good condition item for the Silent Auction. Please support their efforts and make some bids! If you are interested in contributing anything to this fundraiser, thank you very much and please let us know ykspeedskating@gmail.com
Do you have a child that knows how to skate and is interested in trying Speed Skating? Or maybe you want to try yourself! On October 14, the Yellowknife Speed Skate Club (YKSSC) is hosting an Open House Skate and Bring-a-Friend to Class.
There is no cost to join YKSSC opportunity!
• Come out and learn what speed skating is all about.
• Play games and learn drills.
• Try out a fun and positive on-ice sport.
What skaters will need to bring:
• CSA-approved helmet and gloves.
• Hockey skates. Figure skates are not permitted as the tips make holes in the ice. There will be a limited supply of speed skates available for guests to try at no cost (only available for Multiplex classes).
• A signed waiver, which you can do before you get on the ice. Anyone under the age of 18 needs to come with a parent or guardian to sign for them. We will have waivers on hand for you to sign.
We have two upcoming bagging opportunities giving our skaters (10+) who travel to out-of-town meets a chance to earn some money back. Follow this link to sign up for the October 13 and December 22 dates. We need parents help too please! If you can’t access this link, please email Heather at hmnystrom@hotmail.com with your requested times.
The camp is aimed at competitive youth skaters (L2T, T2T and Juniors) who wish to improve their technique. It will run Oct 12 – Oct 14.
The Head Coach for the camp is Sue Ellis from Rothesay, New Brunswick. Sue is a Level 4 NCCP coach, and 2002 US Olympic Short Track Team Head Coach.
This will be a technical camp, the focus is working on skill development. The camp participants will watch video of Elite World Cup and Olympic skaters, and analyze the technique and motions that the skaters perform as they skate. The camp participants will then attempt to recreate the motions in dry land exercises and then transfer those skills to the ice. One of the main differences of this camp, is that the skaters will develop an understanding of the technique that they are trying to develop and why; they can then use this knowledge when they analyze their own skating in the future.
The camp will run from approximately 8:30am – 5:00pm each day, with two ice times, dry land, video analysis, and one hour for lunch. Cost for the three days is $270 and we have a limit of 25 skaters. More information can be directed to ianmellors@shaw.ca. They welcome skaters on a first come basis up to the 25 maximum.
We are very happy to announce that Greg Skauge is our new our Skate Coordinator. Skaters who need to rent speed skates (usually for levels SSII and up) can try on and pick up rental skates before the season starts during the following times:
Thursday, September 6 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Monday, September 10 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Skates are rented from our locker room at the Multiplex (back room of the Ed Jeske ice surface). Please contact ykspeedskating@gmail.com if neither of these scheduled times work and you need to make other arrangements.
As noted in our Skate Rental Policy, renters take responsibility for the proper care, maintenance and safe handling of the skates and blades during the rental season. It is recommended skates are sharpened monthly or every 5 -10 practices depending on skater’s size, ability and care of the blades. Your skates can be sharpened by one of our older skaters. If you need contact information for a sharpener, please look on our Facebook page or contact us for more information.
We are back with a great season planned for our skaters!
Step 1 – Register
The easiest way to register is with the online registration form. All skaters must be registered before getting on the ice. Registration closes October 31 for the season.
If you want to register in person or ask us questions about our programs, please visit our table at the Yellowknife Community Showcase, Wednesday, September 12 (from 6:00 – 8:00) at the Yellowknife Community Arena.
Step 2 – Payment
After registering, you will need to forward payment. You can do this one of two ways:
E-transfer the funds to ykspeedskating.regs@gmail.com. Please use the password “Yellowknife” in your transfer and please include the skaters name and program you registered for in the message.
Cheque, payable to Yellowknife Speed Skating Club.
You can drop a cheque off to us at the Yellowknife Community Showcase, Wednesday, September 12 (from 6:00 – 8:00) at the Yellowknife Community Arena.
You can mail the cheque: Box 2664, Yellowknife, NT, X1A 2P9
A variety of safety equipment is required for each skater depending of their program level. A full equipment list for each program is listed on the individual program pages on our website. For more information about appropriate safety equipment, visit Speed Skate Canada.
New this year, tinted safety glasses are NOT allowed during competition. As well, you must have a strap for your glasses.
There are various places online you can purchase certified safety equipment. Visit our Equipment page for links and more information.
Closer to home, Overlander Sports in Yellowknife typically brings in a selection of certified helmets, safety glasses, cut-proof gloves and more at the start of the season for our skaters!
We also have a Used Equipment Swap Shop where you can find deals on various types of speedskating equipment from skates to skinsuits! If you have something to sell, let us know!
Will you need a Club suit this season?
The Club has one YKSSC suit left for sale (small adult size). The Club is also considering ordering more suits before the upcoming season. It would be useful to know ahead of time how many will be needed. If you are interested in buying a YKSSC suit this year, please contact Alexandre Larouche at alexandre.larouche@live.ca
NWTSSA is holding their 2018 Speed Skate Camp on August 22 – 26 in Yellowknife. There is something for everyone this year including a new session for those who have never speedskated before but want to try it out. This is also the least expensive camp by far in Yellowknife! Register here!
Volunteer opportunities are a way for our skaters to raise funds for end-of-the-year reimbursement for out-of-town meets they attended that year. The following opportunities will go toward the 2018/19 race fund.
Co-op grocery bagging is Saturday, May 5. Heather will be looking for volunteers for the following shifts: 10-12, 12-2, 2-4. Email Heather to sign up please.
Spring Clean-up planned for the third week of May (date TBC). We will email more information when we have it!
Cleaning the shed this spring and need to get rid of those bottles? Consider donating your bottle refund to the YKSSC! Here’s how it works: bring in a maximum of 10 bags to the depot. Look on the side board for the YKSSC code (#4469334). Use their machine to print out labels with this code on it – one for each bag you have. Stick a label on each of the bags. Leave the rest to the Depot. Less work for you and we appreciate your donation!
Our annual year-end BBQ and Annual General Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, April 29, from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at the Ski Club. We will provide the hotdogs, hamburgers and drinks. Please bring a side dish or dessert to share, as well as your own plates, cups and cutlery.
Vacant Position for 2018/19 Season
At the AGM we will have elections for our 2018/19 Board. Karin has resigned as President/Chair of YKSSC (insert sad face here) so we are seeking a new leader. If anyone is interested in joining this amazing Board of volunteers (for any role), please let us know!
On March 9-11, 2018, the NWTASSA will host its annual territorial-wide meet in Yellowknife. This ability meet involves all ages and abilities of skaters. Please visit our NWT Champs Page for a 2018 NWT Champs Reg Form and more information.
Deadline to register is February 27, 2018. Submit completed registration forms to Myra Bowerman or Jody Pellissey in person or by email at ykspeedskating.regs@gmail.com
Rockets are free and all other divisions are $45 per skater. Payments can be made via cash, cheque (made to Yellowknife Speed Skating Club) or EMT to ykspeedskating.regs@gmail.com. Please use the password “yellowknife” and indicate the skater’s name.
Many officials and helpers are needed to put on this fun event. Please contact Martin Rourke at martinrourke@theedge.ca if you can volunteer as an official or meet helper. Positions include: timers, place judges, lap counters, runners, clerks of course, on-ice track stewards.
We need volunteers to help feed our meet volunteers! If you are able to make something, please contact Jody directly at jlsnortland@gmail.com or call her at 445-4774 and tell her what you can bring.
Again, this will be a screen-free event so please leave the electronics at home and get ready to cheer!! New to racing meets? Check out the Parent’s Guide to Races.
We have create a CLOSED (meaning you have to be a member to post on the page) Facebook Group page for easier internal communications amongst our membership. We have sent out email invitations to all of our members to join the page. If you did not receive one, follow this link and ask to join the YK Speed Skate Club page.
The page is intended to be a place for us to post YKSSC information and reminders, and for members to ask questions, post lost and found items or equipment for sale, suggestions for the Club, etc. If Facebook isn’t your thing, you can still email us!
It is not mandatory you join this Facebook page to stay up-to-date. All posts the YKSS Club puts on the page will still be sent out via email or the newsletter to your email address. And posted here on our website!
AWG Trials for the Speed Skating NWT Team are happening Friday, January 19 (6:30 – 8:00 PM) and Saturday, January 20 (9:00 – 10:30 AM). Come out to Ed Jeske arena to watch some great races and cheer on our skaters!
The speed skating competition of the PyeongChang 2018 Olympics are scheduled to be held at the Gangneung Oval between February 10 and 24, 2018. Let’s get together and have an Olympic SS Viewing Pizza Party!
As we won’t be watching the events live (we would have to be up at some crazy hour of the morning!), we will compile some of the best races, order some pizza and have some fun together. We have tentatively set this party for the evening of Friday, February 23, so please save the date! More details and a location to come soon.
Mark your calendars for the NWT Champs Meet, scheduled for March 10 and 11 in Yellowknife. This meet is hosted by the NWTASSA and brings together all territorial clubs for an exciting two days of racing! Stay tuned for more details on volunteering and registration (not open yet, but will close February 25).
RU Fast is a fun Meet taking place in Calgary on March 3 and 4, 2018. This Meet is suitable for all abilities and ages.
YKSSC out of town meet policy indicates skaters under the age of 10 must be accompanied by a parent. Skaters 10 and up and can travel with the team coach and chaperone.
If you might be interested in attending this meet, please email us by January 16. These plans are not written in stone, we are just trying to get a feel of who might want to attend this out of town meet.
The top 64 junior short track speed skaters in Canada will be in action this weekend, December 15-17, at Saguenay’s Centre Georges-Vézina for Speed Skating Canada’s 2017 Canadian Junior Championships.
The 32 male and 32 female skaters, between 14 and 19 years of age inclusively, will aim for one of the four spots per gender available to represent the country at the 2018 World Junior Short Track Championships to be held March 2-4 in Tomaszow Mazoviecki, Poland. They will be chosen based on their overall results at the Canadian Junior Championships in the 500m, 1000m, 1500m and 1500m Super Final.
More info, including the full schedule and results, are available on Speed Skating Canada’s Website: www.speedskating.ca
The Club is hosting a FREE skate for all its members & families to celebrate the holiday season. Please join us on Saturday, December 23 from 4:00 – 5:00 at the YK Arena for a fun skate, cookies, hot chocolate and a visit from the ‘Big Guy’ himself!
Please be sure to view our December schedule and note the days we have NO ICE. Note: there is a Christmas Camp for the Competitive Skaters, December 27-29.
After a relaxing holiday season, skaters should be ready to skate again starting on Thursday, January 4 for SS2 and Comp, Saturday, January 6 and Sunday, January 7 for LTS/SS1, and Sunday, January 7 for SS3.
Speed skates have a different type of blade than hockey or figure skates and therefore need to be sharpened in a special way. Skates should be sharpened before the season, at least once a month and before events/meets to enhance a skater’s ability and protection of our skates.
If you need your skates sharpened, contact our Skate Coordinator, Rob Bubar. He will advise on who to contact for sharpening. Alternatively, you can drop your skates off with one of the Sr. Competitive skaters during their Sunday ice time. The cost is $10.
The Arctic Winter Games is looking for volunteers to work the Speed Skating competition in Fort Smith, March 18-24, 2018. Race days will be Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
There is some housing available for out of town volunteers, but no travel or meal assistance can be offered at this time. They are looking for experienced volunteers that are willing to share accommodation. Preference will be given to volunteers that have training and experience with the roles of Ice Steward, Place Judge and Timing. Also preference for those that will work all four days of racing and assist with set up/take down.
Contact Jane Peterson at speedskating@awg2018.org if you would like to volunteer or have any questions. Include in your email any roles you are interested in, what training you have and if you will require accommodation.
The skater/coach clinic with Debby Fisher has been rescheduled to January (date TBD). There is no fee for the clinic and the skaters will just need to attend their regular program times. More information to come in the New Year.
YKSSC had a great showing at the Edmonton Fall Classic in November. Personal bests were made by all and metals were received by many of our skaters. Our kids also looked great in their new YKSSC Suits! Way to go Team!
Welcome to a new season! Currently we have 114 skaters registered for this year and all programs are off to a great start. Registration is open until November 15 if you know of anyone that still wants to join. Many thanks to our Registrar, Myra Bowerman and Treasurer, Jody Pellissey for ensuring complete registrations.
On Saturday, December 2, the Club will be hosting its first meet of the season for all ages and abilities of skaters. The Ability Meet Information Flyer and Registration Form can be found on our events page. You can fill out the registration form on your computer and email it to ykspeedskating@gmail.com or if you prefer you can print it out and give it to Jody, Myra or Karin. Deadline to register is Sunday, November 19.
The registration fee of $20 (Rockets are FREE!) can be sent via EMT to ykspeedskating@gmail.com. Please be sure to use the password “yellowknife” and indicate which skater your transfer is for. If you prefer, cash or cheque (make out to YKSSC) can be given to Jody, Myra or Karin.
Many volunteers are required to run this meet (set-up, timing, recording, lap-counting, water, runners, etc) so we need your help! Training and direction will be provided. If you are able to help, please email Martin. If you are interested in being the Food Coordinator, please email the Ability Meet Coordinator (Jody).
Speed Skate Canada has designated Sunday, December 10 as National Skate Day! To celebrate this Canada 150 event, we will be holding a free public skate with games and other fun activities on the ice.
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED. Sorry for the inconvenience.
We will reschedule this fun day in the near future.
We wanted to highlight a great achievement from one of our Competitive Skaters, Wren Acorn, earlier this month in Calgary. Wren was in fine form both on and off the ice skating two rounds of 500≥m races and 1 round of 1500m. Competing with many western Canadian skaters, plus development team members from Japan and the US, made for some exciting races and great learning. Wren achieved a new personal best in the 500m race! Photo credit: Calgary Olympic Long Track coach Arno Hoogveld.
YKSSC will be hosting a skater/coach clinic in November (date TBC) where renowned coach Debby Fisher will be on ice for all group levels to help our coaches become better coaches and also to help our skaters become better skaters! There is no fee for the clinic and the skaters just need to attend their regular program times.
When parents bring skaters to the rink, it is important to please help put out the mats (depending on the level) to be as efficient as possible and to allow our skaters to maximize their ice time. We also request that parents (or a designated adult) stay to watch their skaters in case their child requires attention due to injury. The coaches cannot fully tend to injured skaters with other skaters present on the ice. And you’ll want to cheer on your skaters!
For the first time ever, YKSSC has ordered locally designed club suit to its skaters. Not only does this opportunity make our skaters look and feel good during practice, it also brings them together at tournaments away from home. A HUGE thank you to Alexandre for designing and spearheading the order with Apogée. Suits are expected to be here in early November.
We are back with a great season planned for our skaters! In order to streamline processes and reduce administration costs, YKSSC has eliminated the option of PayPal. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.
Step 1 – Register
The easiest way to register is with the online registration form. All skaters must be registered before getting on the ice.
Step 2 – Payment
After registering, you will need to forward payment. You can do this one of two ways:
E-transfer the funds to ykspeedskating.regs@gmail.com. Please use the password “Yellowknife” in your transfer and please include the skaters name and program you registered for in the message.
Cheque, payable to Yellowknife Speed Skating Club.
You can mail the cheque: Box 2664, Yellowknife, NT, X1A 2P9
We have a variety of Club speed skates to rent in sizes to fit SSII skaters and up. We also have limited smaller sizes suitable for SSI although they are not required at this level. The rental fee is $125 for the season plus a damage deposit of $125 (to be returned at the end of the season).
We are very happy to announce that Rob Bubar will remain as our Skate Coordinator. Skaters who need to rent speed skates can try on and pick up rental skates on the following dates:
LAST DATE FOR SS1 RENTALS: Sunday September 24, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Thursday, September 7 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Monday, September 11 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Skates are rented from our locker room at the Multiplex (back room of the Ed Jeske ice surface). Please contact ykspeedskating@gmail.com if neither of these scheduled times work and you need to make other arrangements.
A variety of safety equipment is required for each skater depending of their program level. A full equipment list for each program is listed on the individual program pages. For more information about appropriate safety equipment, visit Speed Skate Canada.
There are various places online you can purchase certified safety equipment. Visit our Equipment page for links and more information.
Closer to home, Overlander Sports in Yellowknife typically brings in a selection of certified helmets, safety glasses, cut-proof gloves and more at the start of the season for our skaters!
We also have a Used Equipment Swap Shop where you can find deals on various types of speedskating equipment from skates to skinsuits! If you have something to sell, let us know!
Many thanks to everyone who helped with last week-end’s territorial meet hosted by the NWTASSA here in YK. Congrats to all the skaters from across the NWT who competed, achieved personal best times and most importantly, had a smile on their face! Special thanks to 62 Degrees North for providing Emergency Medical Response services. View the results of our speedy skaters!
On March 11th and 12th, the NWTASSA is hosting its annual territorial-wide meet here in YK for several NWT Clubs, Cambridge Bay, Iqaluit and Whitehorse, so come cheer these skaters on! This 2-day meet involves all ages and abilities of skaters.
Please complete the registration form and return it and payment to your coach or Karin Clark (4805 Hershman Road). The deadline for registration forms is Sunday, February 26th.
Many volunteers are required to run this meet (set-up, timing, recording, lap-counting, water, runners, etc) so we need YOU!! Training and direction will be provided. Please contact Martin Rourke if you can help. Please contact the Club If you can help by bringing some muffins, cookies, fruit trays or crock pots (soup or chill). THANKS!
SpeedSkating Canada (SSC) has created the Youth Development Fund to support the future of speedskating for kids across Canada. The Youth Development Fund, when mature, will support annual program budgets for clubs, membership, coach and officials development. For more information please check out the SSC website.
Mark your calendars for the next NWT skating meet scheduled for March 11 and 12 in Yellowknife. This meet is hosted by the NWTASSA and brings together all territorial clubs for an exciting 2 days of racing! Stay tuned for more details on registration and volunteering.
RU Fast is a fun meet taking place in Calgary on March 4-5th and suitable for all ages. We are currently looking for a coach(es) and trip coordinator to help with the travel arrangements and skater support. Please send us an email if you are interested in either of these positions. YKSSC out of town meet policy indicates skaters under the age of 10 must be accompanied by a parent. Skaters 10 and up and can travel with the team coach and chaperone. If you are interested in sending your skater please talk to your coach.
Please join us for our annual Santa Skate on December 17th 4-5pm Ed Jeske rink. We will have hot chocolate and other treats for the kids. The big guy himself will also join us!
A team of 17 skaters (including one from Inuvik!), 2 coaches and chaperone made a great showing in mid-November at the Edmonton Fall Classic speed skating meet. Way to go, Team!
We currently have 135 skaters registered for this year and all programs are off to a great and fast start! Thanks to all families and skaters for supporting our Club!
On December 3rd, the Club will be hosting its first meet of the season so come cheer our skaters on! The Ability Meet involves all ages and abilities of skaters. Please complete the registration form and return to your coach or member of the Executive by Wednesday, November 16th.
Many volunteers are required to run this meet (set-up, timing, recording, lap-counting, water, runners, etc) so we need YOU!! Training and direction will be provided. Please contact Martin Rourke if you can help. To help keep our wonderful volunteers, coaches and officials energized and happy throughout the day food is provided. Please contact the Club email If you can help by bringing some tasty food.
Proper equipment and attire is essential to ensuring the safety of our skaters on the ice. And equipment needs change as skaters increase in skill level and speed. Please review the list of equipment requirements for your skaters group to ensure you are complient. If you find you need a particular item, a great place to order online is: I Love Speed Skating. Please talk to your coach if you have any questions or concerns or send an email to the Club.
A HUGE congrats to Wren Acorn, Sophie Clark and Grace Clark from the YKSSC who traveled to Calgary to participate in the Oktoberfest speedskating meet at the Calgary Oval, October 14-16. Everyone achieved awesome results and made our Club PROUD! Further congratulations to Hannah Clark and Jackson Christie who are training at the Calgary Oval and representing the NWT. WAY TO GO TEAM!
The Club will be hosting a skater/coach clinic on October 27th – 30th where renowned coach Debby Fisher will be on ice for all group levels to help our coaches become better coaches and also to help our skaters become better skaters! There is no fee for the clinic and the skaters just need to attend their regular program times.
Debby will also deliver a course for On-Ice Helpers Friday, October 28th 7 – 9pm and Saturday, October 29th 1 – 3pm. This course is an entry level course on the sport of speed skating and how you can assist your skater and coach as an on-ice helper. If you are a parent or friend interested in helping or just wanting more information on the sport please contact the club to register.
