Coaches

Stepping into the role of Head Coach for the Grizzlies, Joffrey is no stranger to our community, marking his second year with the club. A former speed skating prodigy, he proudly secured a commendable 7th position at the Junior Worlds in 2001 and the top 8 speed skaters in Canada for Short Track, during his career. Beyond his athletic prowess, Joffrey has honed his coaching skills on the world stage, having imparted his expertise at international championships.

Off the rink, Joffrey isn’t just a man of speed but also precision and vision. An engineer by profession, he spearheads his own renovation company. And if you ever wonder where he refuels his energy, you might spot him either pushing his limits on a trail run or gracefully descending snowy slopes, indulging in his passion for telemark skiing.

With a rich history of 16 years in speed skating, Coach Matej has been making waves on the national circuit since the young age of 11. His journey has taken him from the Youth Long Track Championships to the pinnacle of the Olympic Trials in Short Track. On the international stage, he’s donned the maple leaf twice, racing for Canada at the World Junior Short Track Championships.

The allure of Montréal called him for four seasons, where he trained with the National Next Gen Team. While there, he not only honed his skating but also developed a love for fresh bread and picked up some catchy Québécois phrases. Now, back in Calgary, Matej is channeling his energy into Long Track, both as a competitor and a coach for the Grizzlies.

Off the ice, he’s diving deep into computer science, continuing a degree he began out east. But Matej isn’t just about codes and skates. In his downtime, he’s either crafting melodies, stargazing, or mastering the art of ordering a drink in various languages.

A pillar in the speed skating community for over three decades, Coach James embarked on this icy journey at the tender age of eight. His illustrious 20-year competitive career saw him representing not just clubs but the nation, as part of the esteemed Canadian National Team.

James isn’t just known for his prowess on the ice; he’s a virtuoso when it comes to speed skating equipment. His deep understanding, ranging from the aerodynamics of racing suits to the intricate details of boots, has set new standards in the sport.

Now, as the Lead Coach for the Learn to Skate group and an invaluable assistant for the Learn to Train program, James continues to share his wealth of knowledge with budding athletes.

Additionally, since 2008, he’s been the trusted Skate Shop Coordinator at the iconic Olympic Oval, ensuring every athlete is geared up to perfection.

In her third season with the Calgary Grizzlies, Coach Victoria confidently guides the Learn to Skate group. A dedicated athlete, she boasts a 17-year tenure in speed skating and is presently honing her prowess in stage 3 Long Track at the Olympic Oval. Juggling the intricacies of coaching, competing, and academia, Victoria exemplifies dedication.

Off the rink, she cherishes tranquil moments by the river, dives deep into her books, and is on a quest to discover the best coffee shops around the city with friends.

Emerging from the prestigious Oval Program in Short Track, Coach Nicole epitomizes both athleticism and intellect.

As she delves into her Bachelor of Health Sciences, she’s been at the forefront of pioneering research on adolescent and young adult cancer. Boasting a BA in French Language & Literature, she truly shines in academia.

Off the rink, the Rockies call her name, and she answers by traversing their trails. When seeking solace, Nicole finds comfort alongside her two cherished feline friends.

From the age of three, Coach Anneke discovered her passion for the ice, which eventually brought her to Calgary and its renowned Oval Program. After dedicating roughly four years there, she embraced a new path, channeling her creativity at the Alberta University of the Arts as she pursues a Bachelor of Design. This season, Anneke will be a substitute coach while focusing on her studies. 

Among her notable achievements: securing Canada’s 18th speed skating spot, designing the acclaimed 2019 Canada Winter Games short track suit, and impressively maintaining her Japanese fluency despite not visiting for over a decade — a place she’s keen to return to.

When not focusing on design or skating, Anneke delves into video games, engages in critical analysis, or finds herself becoming fast friends with everyone’s pets.