Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD)

Skate Canada’s newly developed comprehensive Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model is designed to assist coaches, parents, volunteers and administrators create an environment that allows skaters to fully develop and reach their potential in the sport, regardless of whether their goals are recreational or competitive in nature.

In Pursuit of Excellence: Skate Canada’s Guide to Long-Term Athlete Development is for the benefit of all members and is rooted in the philosophy of “skating for life” and being active for life.

Skate Canada’s LTAD model was developed by Skate Canada coaches from all levels within our organization and feedback was collected from many stakeholders including over 2,200 surveys completed by Skate Canada coaches. The philosophies and guidelines detailed in Skate Canada’s LTAD model are based on the results of scientific studies conducted and compiled by Sport Canada LTAD experts that have shown how the human body develops, grows and matures.

Skate Canada is currently in the process of implementing its LTAD philosophies and guidelines into its programming and is consulting with coaches, volunteers and other stakeholders as it proceeds.