Yellowknife Skating Club used its annual show to celebrate a coach who has been helping athletes in the city for three decades.
Brendan Dalton was the subject of a surprise presentation at the end of last week’s Enchanted Chocolate Dreams on Ice, a show loosely based on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory that she had helped to inspire.
A parade of athletes coached by Dalton over the past 30 years each passed her a rose as part of the celebration, a collection that grew into a bouquet.
“Brenda has shown a true commitment to inclusion in our sport. No matter a skater’s ability, Brenda believed they can improve and gain new skills,” the club told spectators.
Dalton was hailed as a coach who pours as much attention into the youngest skater in their first session as she does a competitive skater mastering a complex jump.
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Off the ice, her responsibilities have included compiling all the music needed for athletes at their competitions, organizing clinics, awarding badges and helping to bring the club’s annual shows to life.
She has also coached Team NT at the Canada Winter Games, Arctic Winter Games and Special Olympics events.
“Brenda has a knack for finding ways to build confidence and mastery in all skaters, epecially those who need a little extra support,” the audience was told.
“She has taught thousands of people to skate and holds a special place in the heart of her former students.
“On behalf of the skating club and all of your past skaters, thank you for being our coach.”
