The figure skating community is deeply mourning the loss of Anne Schelter, a celebrated Canadian coach and choreographer whose influence on the sport spanned decades. Known for her groundbreaking “Annie’s Edges” program, Anne’s contributions to the world of figure skating were profound, and her impact continues to resonate across the sport today. Her death leaves a significant void, but her legacy will live on through the skaters she mentored and the innovative techniques she introduced to the discipline.
Anne Schelter was a figure skating coach whose expertise and vision were unparalleled. She was not just a coach but a visionary who understood the delicate balance between artistry and athleticism that figure skating demands. She worked with athletes across the spectrum, from young beginners taking their first strides on the ice to seasoned Olympians performing on the world stage. Her approach to coaching was both technical and creative, emphasizing the artistry of movement, the importance of edge work, and the development of a skater’s overall fluidity and grace on the ice.
The “Annie’s Edges” program, for which she became best known, revolutionized the way skaters approach edge control. This program focused on developing strong, precise edges, which are fundamental to executing powerful and fluid movements in figure skating. Anne’s methods were hailed as transformative, pushing athletes to hone their technical skills while also allowing them to express their artistry in new and innovative ways. Her focus on edge work became a cornerstone of training for skaters worldwide, and it was not just about mastering the technicalities of skating but also about cultivating a deeper connection to the artistry of the sport.
Throughout her career, Anne worked with a range of athletes, from those just starting out to international competitors, and her influence was widespread. She was a sought-after guest coach at national training camps, seminars, and workshops in Canada, the United States, Europe, and Japan. Coaches and skaters alike traveled to learn from her expertise, with Anne’s ability to explain complex concepts in a way that made them accessible to all levels of skaters being one of her greatest strengths. Her impact on the sport extended well beyond her own coaching career, as her methods were passed down through generations of skaters and coaches who revered her insight and techniques.
Anne’s contribution to the sport of figure skating was formally recognized in 2015 when she received Skate Canada’s prestigious Competitive Coach of Excellence award. This recognition was a testament to her years of dedication to the development of skaters and her commitment to elevating the standards of coaching within Canada and beyond. The award was not just a celebration of her accomplishments, but also an acknowledgment of the lasting influence Anne had on the sport, particularly in the areas of figure skating technique and artistry.
One of the most notable aspects of Anne Schelter’s coaching career was her involvement in synchronized skating. In addition to her work with individual athletes, Anne was a key figure in the synchronized skating world, where her creative and technical expertise helped shape the success of some of the most renowned teams in the sport. A significant part of her legacy is tied to her work with NEXXICE, a team from the Burlington Skating Club. As a member of the coaching team, Anne played a pivotal role in NEXXICE’s rise to international prominence. Her choreography and coaching were instrumental in defining the team’s signature style and success on the world stage.
Under Anne’s guidance, NEXXICE developed into one of the most respected synchronized skating teams globally. Their performances, characterized by intricate choreography, flawless synchronization, and a strong artistic flair, became a model for teams around the world. Anne’s ability to bring out the best in her athletes—both in terms of technical skill and artistic expression—helped to push synchronized skating into a new era. Her legacy with NEXXICE is one of excellence, and the team continues to honor her memory by upholding the high standards she set for them.
Anne’s influence extended beyond her direct coaching and choreography. Her training methodologies and approach to skating have inspired teams and individuals across the globe. Recently, the renowned U.S. synchronized skating team, the Haydenettes, publicly expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn from Anne. They highlighted the lasting influence of her edge work and skating skills, noting how Anne’s techniques continue to shape their own training methods. Her contribution to synchronized skating is undeniable, and her influence will continue to be felt by teams that strive for excellence in every performance.
In addition to her technical contributions, Anne was known for her passion for the sport and her unwavering dedication to the athletes she worked with. She was not just a coach but a mentor, someone who understood the emotional and psychological challenges that skaters face. She nurtured not only the physical development of her athletes but also their mental resilience, teaching them the importance of perseverance, focus, and belief in themselves. Her ability to connect with her athletes on a personal level made her a beloved figure in the figure skating community, and her impact on their lives went far beyond the rink.
Anne Schelter’s passion for skating was matched only by her love for sharing that passion with others. She believed that skating was not just a sport but a form of artistic expression, a way for individuals to communicate through movement. Her belief in the beauty of the sport and her dedication to teaching others to appreciate and understand that beauty was evident in everything she did. Whether she was coaching a young beginner or working with an elite athlete, Anne’s approach to teaching always emphasized the artistry and grace that make figure skating so unique.
As the figure skating world mourns the loss of Anne Schelter, her legacy is far from forgotten. Her contributions to the sport have shaped the way skaters train, perform, and view their own abilities. Her impact on synchronized skating, in particular, will be remembered for generations to come, as teams around the world continue to adopt her methods and techniques. Her approach to edge work, her focus on artistry, and her ability to inspire athletes to reach their full potential have left an indelible mark on the sport.
The loss of Anne Schelter is felt not only by those who knew her personally but by the countless skaters and coaches whose careers she touched. Her influence on the sport of figure skating will continue to be felt for many years, as the athletes she mentored carry forward her teachings and the love for skating that she instilled in them. Anne’s legacy is one of excellence, artistry, and passion, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of working with her. The figure skating community has lost a true visionary, but her contributions to the sport will never be forgotten.
As the world remembers Anne Schelter, it is important to celebrate her many accomplishments and the lasting impact she had on the sport. From her work with individual skaters to her contributions to synchronized skating, Anne’s dedication to the sport of figure skating has left a profound legacy that will continue to inspire athletes and coaches for generations. Her passion, artistry, and unwavering commitment to the sport have shaped figure skating in ways that will be felt for years to come.
