Northfield Skating School

Each session, NSS honors the staff member with the highest student retention, that is, the coach who has the highest percentage of skaters from their classes sign up to continue skating lessons. A high retention rate is a symbol of the commitment and quality of teaching, which greatly impacts our program. This session’s retention winner was coach Michaela McLaughlin. Read on to learn Michaela’s “secrets:”

“I really feel honored that so many skaters are coming back. It just goes to show what kind of an environment NSS produces. Since it’s so frigid cold in the arena, I, and the other coaches, try as hard as we can to make skaters feel warm and welcome at every lesson. I take the NSS philosophy to heart and encourage my skaters to be confident in their skills and in who they are as individuals. The most rewarding aspect of every lesson is witnessing the “Leader of the Day” take charge. Each week, one of the skaters leads the class by demonstrating different skills and watching and giving feedback to other skaters. This is an opportunity for all skaters to feel empowered no matter what their particular level of skating!!”

Congratulations, Michaela, for your achievement and dedication to coaching.

Above: Michaela helps skaters on Bring a Friend Day and the Off Ice Workshop last session. See our photos page for more photos.