About Momentum Skating Academy
No matter your level, there’s a place for you here. Join us on the ice.
Why Join Us
- Clear, structured pathways from first steps to advanced development
- Athlete-centred coaching focused on long-term growth
- Positive, supportive environment for all ages and stages
- High-quality programming across multiple skating disciplines
- Mentorship and leadership opportunities for developing skaters
Work hard. Build strong foundations. Love the process.
Momentum Core Coaches
Jennifer Shigematsu
Provincial Coach | National Coach in Training
Jen coaches skaters from the CanSkate pathway through advanced development with an athlete-centred approach. She believes strong technical foundations matter, but the person always comes before the performance. Her coaching focuses on long-term athlete development and progressive skill acquisition, helping skaters build strong fundamentals, confidence, and measurable progress. Whether a skater is developing through CanSkate, progressing through STARSkate, or pursuing advanced competitive goals, Jen prioritizes sustainable development over short-term results. Known for her clarity, high standards, and genuine investment in each athlete’s growth, Jen challenges skaters with purpose while creating an environment where athletes feel supported, capable, and confident both on and off the ice.
Jessica MacKay
Provincial Coach | National Coach in Training
Jess discovered her love for figure skating at a very young age, and that passion quickly became the driving force behind her journey. She earned numerous provincial titles and competed at national and international levels, experiences that not only honed her skills but also taught her the value of dedication, resilience, and joy in the sport. After her competitive career, Jess spent two years performing as a professional figure skater on cruise ships, bringing artistry and entertainment to audiences around the world.
For the past ten years, Jess has dedicated herself to coaching, sharing her passion for skating with skaters of all ages and levels. She focuses on developing well-rounded athletes—skaters who are technically strong, confident, and resilient, while also fostering creativity, sportsmanship, and love for the ice. Her coaching style is supportive, patient, and personalized, helping each skater set meaningful goals and achieve their best.
Jess believes that figure skating is more than just jumps and spins; it’s about building character, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for the sport. Whether on the ice or off, she strives to create an environment where skaters feel inspired, challenged, and empowered to grow both as athletes and as individual.
Supplemental Coaches
Atlee Graham
Regional Trained
Atlee is a Red Deer Polytechnic collegiate athlete and Quad Gold recipient who trains under Coach Jess. She has coached CanSkate and STARSkate over the past 2–3 seasons and is currently completing her Regional Coach Certification.
Known for her quiet confidence, Atlee supports skaters with strong technical guidance while helping them build confidence on the ice.
Lessons booked through core coach.
Madison Donaghy
Regional Certified
Madison is a certified Regional Coach in her first season and a Quad Gold recipient who continues to train as a competitive ice dancer. Her coaching focuses on building strong foundational skills through thoughtful technique while fostering a lifelong love of skating. Committed to ongoing learning, she delivers clear, engaging instruction tailored to each skater. Madison creates a positive and supportive environment where athletes feel confident, motivated, and excited to grow—her passion for skating is felt in every session.
Lessons booked through core coach.
Megan Douglas
CanSkate Certified
Megan is a CanSkate-certified coach with 10 years of coaching experience and training in PowerSkating and STARSkate. She is passionate about helping young skaters develop their skills and takes pride in supporting their growth and confidence on the ice. Megan creates a positive and encouraging environment where athletes feel motivated to learn—her love for skating is reflected in every session.
Lessons booked through core coach.
Program Assistant
Kira McPhee
Kira is a Triple Gold recipient who trains under Coach Jen and has successfully transitioned from athlete to mentor skater. Known for her kind and uplifting personality, Kira is a valued asset on the ice, supporting skaters through shadow dance, solo run-throughs, and practice planning. Her genuine love of skating is evident in everything she does and is felt by all the athletes she works with.
FAQs
Still have questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out with any further questions you may have.
How do I know which program my child should join?
If your child is new to skating, the best place to start is CanSkate, Skate Canada’s nationally recognized learn-to-skate program.
If your child already has skating experience, our coaching team can help determine the most appropriate program level.
What age can children start skating?
Children can typically begin skating around age 3, depending on their readiness and comfort on the ice.
Do skaters need previous skating experience?
No previous experience is required. Many skaters join our programs for the first time and develop their skills through structured instruction and practice.
What equipment does my child need for CanSkate?
HELMETS
All skaters must wear a CSA approved helmet.
Attire
Please dress skaters appropriately. Sweats, track pants, snow pants and yoga pants are all good bottoms. Layers of long sleeve shirts, hoodies and vests allow for easy movement and warmth. Be sure to have a few pairs of mittens and gloves on hand. Items such as long drawstrings, scarves, dangling coat belts etc. can be a hazard on the ice and should be avoided.
Skates
Skaters are allowed to use hockey or figure skates. Lace up skates are required (no buckles).
Who are the coaches?
Our programs are delivered by certified professional coaches trained through Skate Canada, with experience working with skaters of all ages and levels.
To learn more about our coaching team and their backgrounds, you can learn more on the About Us page.