Skate Canada research has shown that talent is not just a natural gift, but rather a product of some natural ability plus opportunity. Opportunity in this case refers to quality coaching and skating experiences, and quality training.

The Sunshine Coast Skating Club’s Beres Clements recently attended two weeks of intensive training at the Toronto Cricket and Curling Club with an amazing team of coaches.

He experienced private lessons with Brian Orser and group lessons with Orser and Tracy Wilson. Beres also had private lessons with specialty coaches Geoff Dionisio (jump harness specialist), Andrew Hallam in edge and stroking, along with expert coaching in off-ice classes (jump, hip hop, ballet and core strength).

If all of that wasn’t exciting enough for the 10-year-old skater, imagine seeing the some of the world’s best skaters training in person.

Yuzuru Hanyu from Japan who finished third at the world championships, Spain’s Javier Fernandez, who finished ninth at worlds and Finland’s Kiira Korpi, the European champion and numerous top skaters from all over the world were all on hand at the training session.

“My experience in Toronto was a lot of fun and I really learned a lot,” he said. “Being able to see high-level skaters inspired me and everyone was so welcoming I felt right at home. The lessons with Brian Orser were awesome and I’m really looking forward to going back again next summer.”

He is now back in B.C. where he is continuing his training in Gibsons as the club prepares for the new season.

“It was an amazing experience and learning curve for both of us,” added coach Lesleigh Farr who attended with him. “Fridays were seminar days which I particularly enjoyed, the first Friday seminar was with Brian. The second Friday was with guest coach Ann Schelter, my former coach, so it was wonderful to reconnect with her.”

— Submitted