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The Saskatoon Lions Speed Skating Club offers dynamic programs for all ages and skill levels. Whether you're just stepping onto the ice or training to compete, we have a place for you. Join us and experience the excitement and speed of this fast-paced sport!

Please note that registration beyond Group 1 is based on recommendation and an assessment completed by our certified coaches. If you are new to the club and unsure of group placement, please consult with the Club and the Director of Membership (email below). ​

Learn to Skate 

Our Learn to Skate Programs are perfect for beginners who are just starting in the sport and want to develop their skating skills. Skaters will be introduced to the fundamentals of skating in a fun and supportive environment. Our experienced coaches will provide instruction on proper form, technique, and safety, helping skaters build a solid foundation. 

In all the learn to skate groups, skaters are divided into smaller groups according to skill level to ensure a good ratio of coaches to skaters. It also allows skaters to move to higher levels of training when they are ready as individuals. There are extra "on-ice helpers" from the senior level in each group to help provide kids with individual attention. 

Short Learn to Skate (Ages 4-8) 

During September and January, the SLSSC provides 8-session Short Learn-to-Skate programs. These are lessons designed to jump-start the beginner skater. Skaters wear their own hockey or figure skates. Upcoming Programming: 

  • September 2025 & January 2026 

Group 1 Learn to Skate (Ages 4-8) 
Welcoming children as young as 4, our fun and safe programs help kids build confidence on the ice. Through games and playful exercises, skaters learn to move, jump, turn, stop, and fall — all while having a great time!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ The programs, structured by certified instructors, aim to develop the overall skills of skaters so they can be agile on the ice. Whether they later choose speed skating, hockey, ringette, figure skating, or simply free skating, they will have acquired solid foundations for life! Program options: 

  • Half season (Fall 2025 & Winter 2026)
  • Full season (September 2025 to March 2026)
  • Beginner: 1 skating session a week
  • Advanced: 2 skating sessions a week 

Group 2 Learn to Speed Skate  (Ages 7-10)
Intended for intermediate skaters either moving up from our Group 1 program or skaters who can attempt to skate backwards, crossover on a corner, stop, and glide on one skate. This group focuses on learning how to speed skate. Coaches use games, drills, and on-track skating to establish good speed skating techniques. Many skaters start by participating in local and provincial speed skating meets. Some skating experience is an asset, but older new skaters can also benefit from this group. Skaters can participate in hockey or figure skates and transition to speed skates when ready (rentals available). Skaters can also start the season in speed skates, skate pick-up is at the end of August annually.
Program options: 

  • Half season (Fall 2025 & Winter 2026)
  • Full season (September 2025 to March 2026)

SPEED SKATING 

For more advanced skaters, our Competitive Programs (Groups 3 and 4) offer specialized training to help athletes reach their full potential. Skaters will have the opportunity to participate in races and competitions, honing their skills and pushing themselves to new heights. Our coaches will work closely with each athlete to develop personalized training plans and provide guidance on race strategy and mental preparation. The competitive programming includes off-ice training sessions to help skaters improve their strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. These sessions are designed to complement on-ice training and enhance skaters' performance on the ice.

Group 3: Learn to Compete  
Group 3 is intended for skaters wanting to train in the speed skating discipline. Group 3 participates in both Short Track and Long Track speed skating throughout the season (September to the end of March). The Group consists of skaters graduating from Group 2 as well as age-appropriate skaters from other disciplines, competent on skates and wanting to give speed skating a try. Off-ice dryland training sessions before or after practices are a regular part of this group, and participation is strongly encouraged. Skaters skate about 3-4 times a week on both short track and long track ice. 

Program Options: 
  • Full season (September 2025 to March 2026
Group 4: Advanced Competitive 

Group 4 is for skaters who train regularly, including through the summer, to prepare for speed skating competitions at the provincial, regional, national and international levels.

Off-ice (dryland) training takes place prior (45 min) to most on ice sessions. During the off-season, skaters can participate in weight training and other dry-land training activities. Program Options: 

  • Full season (September 2025 to March 2026)


Adult 

Whether you're lacing up skates for the first time or you're a seasoned skater looking to sharpen your skills, the Saskatoon Lions Speed Skating Club welcomes adults of all experience levels. Our supportive and energetic community offers expert coaching, flexible training options, and a fun way to stay active.

Come skate with us — for fitness, for competition, or just for the love of the sport. No matter your pace, there's a place for you on the ice!

A  limited number of  recreational speed skates are available to rent from SLSSC on a first-come, first-served basis. Skates are only available during Club times (renters can’t take them home as they are also used for school classes during the day).

Adult Short Learn to Skate (Winter 2026) 

This is for adults who are brand new to skating and want to learn basic skating skills. The programming is hosted at the Clarence Downey International Speed Skating Oval, the fastest natural ice in Canada (outdoor). 

Group 5 – Recreational Adult Speed Skating (Fall 2025)

This is for adults who have experience skating and want to learn or continue speed skating. 

Program Options: 

  • Fall 2025 - Short Track 
  • Winter 2026 - Long Track 
























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Program Registration and Cost 

To learn more about the program registration and the cost of the different programs, please visit the registration site linked below. 
Please note that program costs are adjusted annually to align with the cost of operations (such as ice rental). 

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PROGRAM QUESTIONS

For questions regarding the best fit for your skater and family, feel free to contact us. 

Director of Membership Development 
Saskatoon Lions Speed Skating Club 
membership@slspeedskating.com