Master technician
Premier Canadian figure skating coach works with locals
When a figure skating coach has worked with the likes of Canadian champions and Olympic medalists Brian Orser and Elvis Stojko, he’s bound to be listened to.
“He is a master technician,” said local figure skating coach Angie Coady-Pennington of Doug Leigh, who is conducting a three-day seminar this week for approximately 50 skaters at the Pictou County Wellness Centre.
“People from all over the world go to him. It’s an amazing experience, for even the coaches. It’s always great to learn from the best.”
Leigh is the head coach and founder of the Mariposa School of Skating, with which Coady-Pennington’s club (Mariposa East) is affiliated. As a junior, he won a silver medal at the 1966 Canadian figure skating championships and has been coaching for more than 40 years.
Leigh is a specialist at jumping and has been working with various age and skill levels at the seminar, which started Tuesday.
He grew up in Huntsville, Ont., a town of about 19,000 located about two hours north of Toronto.
“You never know when you will find talent,” said Leigh, during a break from his on-ice instruction.
“(Coaching) can make a difference in other people. I believe in youth and giving kids a chance.”
Then, his voice rises slightly and he becomes more animated as he talks about his beliefs on what makes a great figure skater – or any athlete, for that matter.
Leigh appreciates the idea that small towns can breed youngsters who are yearning to turn a dream into reality – the frozen rinks that dot little Canadian towns from coast to coast can act as great motivators when a kid wants to get out, and go find something bigger.
“You know where you find talent? When someone’s a little cold and a little hungry,” he said of discovering athletes who have the passion and hard work that’s necessary to excel.
“You can find someone especially talented, but with the wrong attitude – born with a silver spoon. When you have taken the harder road, you are mentally, physically and emotionally stronger, because you are tough and you respected that road.”
Coady-Pennington and some of her skaters just spent several days at a Mariposa camp in Barrie, Ont., where Leigh is based.
She described Leigh as a natural motivator, one who makes believers of those who are willing to listen to the long-time coach.
“Everyone looks forward to this. He motivates not just the skaters, but the coaches, too,” she said.