Nancy Jalbert is feeling positive about this year's speed skating season which is already underway in Williams Lake.
Jalbert is head coach at the Williams Lake Speed Skating Association Bullets (WLSSAB) and is expecting to send three skaters to the BC Cup in November.
“I love seeing the kids improve and being able to help them,” Jalbert said in an interview with the Tribune. She began coaching shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic and has worked hard to learn how to help speed skaters from the ground up.
Her son Kayden Ford-Jalbert (17) and her grandson Logan Kelly-Jalbert (nine), along with speed skater Preston Sigworth (17), will be competing at the BC Cup in Richmond. The two 17-year-olds have also qualified for this year’s provincials in Prince George, while Logan is waiting to hear whether his age category will be added to the event.
In the meantime, Jalbert is planning to finalize her coaching certifications at the Thompson Okanagan Community Academy on Oct. 26 in Kamloops. Preston, Logan and Kayden will be accompanying her to learn from the Provincial Coach Coordinator Maxime Thibault. Attending the academy for her first time will be Matanna LaBounty-Jalbert who is only six-years-old.
Jalbert describes the WLSSAB as a fun group and said the kids "love the speed." While the Bullets are already busy training for the new season, those interested in joining the group are welcome to do so at any time. And if you’re not quite sure about it, Jalbert said new members can do a free three-day trial to decide if the activity is right for them.
“I’m excited about all the people we’ve got,” Jalbert said. So far there are 16 skaters registered with the WLSSAB ranging from the ages of two to 52. Whether you’re looking for a new pastime or want to feed your competitive soul, Jalbert said all are welcome to register.
“You don’t have to know how to skate, we’ll teach you,” she said. The group meets at the recreation complex on Tuesdays and Thursdays with different training times depending on age and experience. WLSSAB runs until March 14, but skaters have the option of attending only half of the season if they want and can choose whether or not to compete.
Jalbert said most of the required equipment can be lent to the speed skaters, and the group is holding fundraisers to keep their members on the ice. You can help by purchasing products from Margetts Meats by Oct. 31 or from Purdys Chocolatier by Nov. 12 through the WLSSAB.
