B.C. city looks to cement status as speed skating powerhouse with new college program
Fort St. John: The Energetic City of Speed Skaters
Located in northeastern British Columbia, Fort St. John is a city known for its exports of power, grain, and speed skaters. With a population of just over 21,000 people, it prides itself on being “The Energetic City,” not only due to its resource base of oil and natural gas but also because its residents are, on average, nine months younger than the provincial average.
One of the city’s standout facilities is the Pomeroy Sports Centre, which houses two NHL-sized ice rinks and one of only three Olympic-sized indoor speed skating ovals in Canada. This unique feature has set the stage for Fort St. John to launch what is believed to be the first college speed skating program in the country, showcasing the community’s longstanding legacy in the sport.
Northern Lights College (NLC) is spearheading this program in partnership with the city, offering students the opportunity to pursue trades or university classes while training as part of the NLC speed skating team. With access to coaches, physiotherapists, and up to five ice sessions per week, students aim to advance to higher-level skate programs in Quebec City and Calgary, the only other Canadian cities with Olympic-sized indoor ice ovals.
Fort St. John has a history of producing top speed skaters, including Olympic gold medalist Denny Morrison and Olympian Linda Johnson-Blair. The Fort St. John Speed Skating Club, established in 1964, has consistently produced provincial and national champions, with the entire B.C. women’s speed skating team hailing from the city in 1987.
The city’s supportive community plays a crucial role in fostering young talent, as highlighted by Shadi Salehi, president of the Fort St. John Speed Skating Club. The upcoming college-level program will provide a pathway for athletes transitioning from local clubs to elite training centers in Calgary and Quebec City.
In a similar vein, Northern Lights College previously launched B.C.’s only college-level rodeo team in Dawson Creek, attracting students from across Canada and the United States. The success of the rodeo team serves as a blueprint for the future of the speed skating program, with plans to recruit students and establish competitive partnerships by September 2025.
Fort St. John’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a sense of community through sports is evident in its innovative programs and longstanding tradition of excellence in speed skating. As the city continues to push boundaries and empower young athletes, it solidifies its reputation as a hub for energy, athleticism, and ambition.
