So you’ve seen speedskating on the Olympics and always thought it looked fun. So did we. That’s why we have a club. Come join us.
How to get started
New skaters are welcome at any practice. Please check out our page on Attending Your First Practice and let us know that you will be coming – see Contact Us. There are coaches at practices who will help you learn the skills. Our sessions are at the Pittsburgh Ice Arena in New Kensington. See our On Ice Practice Schedule, with pricing information.
Skates
Speedskates use a blade that is much longer, flatter, and narrower than a hockey or figure skate. Boots are also lower. The club has loaner skates available on a first-come first-served basis. They are not available through the front desk, so make sure to Contact Us in advance, and arrive at least 30 minutes early so we can get you properly fitted.
Skills required
Only a basic knowledge of skating is required. If you can make it around the ice on hockey or figure skates, you can learn to speedskate. Practicing for an hour once a week makes you a good skater quickly.
Ages
We have skaters of all ages, from as young as 4 to adults. Come join them on the ice.
Coaching
Our volunteer coaches are Bob and Larry. Together they have decades of experience and coaching credentials in the sport. Bob is also a referee at local and national short track meets.
Competition
The club travels to competitions in Ohio, New York, Virginia, Michigan, and other states. Most competitions are open to all levels of skaters, with groupings based on seed times. As skaters advance through the ranks, there are opportunities to skate in national level Americas Cup events and National Championships.
Opportunity
The Pittsburgh Speedskating Club has been the start for national champions, North American champions, top nationally ranked skaters, and John-Henry Krueger, an Olympic medalist in 2018! For skaters with the talent and the drive, the opportunity is here. Read about our Notable Alumni.
Contact
You can contact coach Bob Halden at rhalden@windstream.net or 724-744-0037 (call). Or contact John Watton at jdwatton@yahoo.com or 724-325-2814 (call or text).
