It was a common sight on a recent Saturday at Arctic Edge Ice Arena in Canton as youngsters in two different youth programs skated around the rink. The kids were all wearing skates, helmets and gloves – along with huge smiles as they were clearly enjoying their time on the ice.

Arctic Edge offers a Learn to Skate program for ages 3 1/2-adults in the morning and a Juice Box Hockey program for ages 4-8 in the afternoon. Both programs often spark a lasting love of skating, and even inspire many to continue into figure skating or hockey.

The goal of the Learn to Skate program is to help skaters gain confidence on the ice while developing strong foundational skills in a fun, safe and encouraging environment.

“We strive to inspire a lifelong love of skating by focusing on proper technique, balance and coordination,” said Learn to Skate Director Jennifer Goen Kowalski. “Whether skaters choose to continue into figure skating, hockey or simply enjoy skating recreationally with friends, our program provides the perfect foundation for success on the ice.”

The Learn to Skate program welcomes everyone.

“Whether you’re lacing up for the very first time or looking to take your skating to the next level, this program offers the perfect environment to grow your skills, boost your confidence and have fun on the ice,” Goen Kowalski said.

The Learn to Skate program is supported by a team of over 20 highly skilled coaches, including skaters and coaches from Team USA. They also have coaches who have taken many skaters to sectionals, nationals, internationals competitions and to the Olympics.

The Learn to Skate program began in the early 2000s, founded and directed by Theresa McKendry, who led the program with dedication and passion until 2017.

“When I took over as director in 2017, my goal was to continue the wonderful legacy she built and to keep sharing the joy of skating with our community,” Goen Kowalski said. “It’s been so rewarding to see skaters of all ages and abilities fall in love with the sport and build confidence on the ice.”

For those interested in exploring hockey, Arctic Edge offers the successful Juice Box Hockey program, which gives young skaters the opportunity to try hockey in a fun and supportive environment.

“Years ago teams would rotate which kid would bring the juice boxes and one day somebody forgot and all the kids were crying and that kind of sparked the idea,” said Craig O'Neill, president and GM of Arctic Edge. “It’s a fun way to introduce kids to the game of hockey and see if they like the sport.”

Juice Box hockey charges only $75 for eight weeks and that includes equipment, ice time, jerseys, instruction, and, of course, a juice box.

“The program is still very popular,” O’Neill said. “Some stay here and continue to play for the Canton Hockey Association, also known as the Canton Wolves, and some will keep playing with their local association. Others will come to the conclusion that it’s not for them. But at least they gave it a shot, and I encourage kids to play multiple sports and see what they like best.”

Arctic Edge, located at 46615 Michigan Avenue in Canton, also features Total Performance Training Center, The Lab Baseball, and Orthosport Physical Therapy. They also are home for the Canton High School hockey team, the Plymouth-Canton-Salem girls Unified Team, Eastern Michigan University women’s team and the U-M D-3 Club Team. They also offer open skating, birthday parties, sticks and pucks and drop-in figure skating. Arctic Edge hosts The Edge Eats concession stand and Detroit Custom Skate Shop, a full-service pro shop. For more information, visit arcticarenas.com.