Building for the Future:  Upcoming AGM

As we prepare for our upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM), we’d like to share some of the progress we’ve made over the past year, and invite members to help shape the future of Hamilton Skating Club.

Our volunteer Board has been focused on strengthening club operations, improving the member experience and building a more transparent, collaborative and inclusive organization.

We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished and especially encouraged by the positive feedback from families who have shared that they feel heard, included and supported.

A Year in Review

Improved Member Support and Expanded Programming

One of our biggest priorities has been improving how we respond to and support our members. By establishing a dedicated Membership Relations role, we’ve been able to respond more effectively to inquiries, troubleshoot registration challenges and better understand the needs of our families.

This increased attention has helped us accommodate more registrations, identify opportunities for growth and expand our CanSkate offerings by several additional sessions each week.

Together with improved registration tracking and closer collaboration with our new CanSkate Director, these changes have strengthened both the member experience and the club’s programming. Having Chris join the director team has brought his experience across programs forward, helping to build bridges between programs, supporting skater development from start to Star. 

Stronger Financial Management and Growth

We’ve introduced expanded financial tracking, budgeting and forecasting, creating greater transparency and accountability.

This work has helped us correct historical pricing imbalances, significantly reduce fees for members in certain programs and provide greater clarity about what’s included in registration fees.

Combined with increased registrations, expanded programming and stronger financial planning, these improvements have contributed to meaningful financial growth, allowing us to reinvest more into our skaters and the club’s future.

Investing Back Into Our Skaters

Through partnership with Ancaster Rotary and our skating families, we held a community bottle drive fundraiser, which funded a skater nutrition seminar series.

We also successfully hosted the Provincial Championships for the first time, receiving excellent feedback from skating officials and generating approximately $35,000 in net proceeds after expenses. 

A portion of these proceeds has supported the new off-ice equipment, and we plan to invite members to help guide the allocation of the remaining funds through a membership survey.

Recognizing Our Volunteer Community

We hosted our first annual volunteer appreciation event this summer; thank you to each and every volunteer who supports the skating club in time and energy!

Building a Stronger Club Together

Hamilton Skating Club has benefited from the dedication of many volunteers and Board members over the years. As our leadership structure has evolved, we’ve placed greater emphasis on teamwork, shared responsibilities, transparency and collaborative decision-making.

We’ve made significant progress, but we also recognize there have been challenges along the way. We’re continuing to improve our processes, communication and coordination to provide a more consistent experience for families.

Above all, we’re committed to ensuring that every skater and every program has a place at HSC, from CanSkate through recreational, developmental and competitive skating.

Looking Ahead: AGM and Board Opportunities

We believe this is the right time to welcome new people, ideas and perspectives to help guide the next chapter of Hamilton Skating Club.

Half of our current Board is required to remain in place, according to our current Bylaws, providing continuity and experience, while departing directors and our proposed Board expansion will create opportunities for new members to join.

The proposed increase in board members is subject to the club’s governance requirements. Expanding will reflect the growth and profile of our HSC community, and allow us to share responsibilities and strengthen representation across our membership as the club continues to grow.

We’re inviting nominations for General Director positions, with particular interest in individuals who can contribute to:

• Member Relations: Improving responsiveness, communication and the overall member experience. This remains a key priority.
• Events Leadership: Planning and coordinating club events and activities.
• Fundraising: Developing initiatives that support our skaters and programs.
• Communications: Keeping families informed, connected and engaged.
• Skater Opportunities & Development: Identifying and supporting opportunities that enhance skater development, growth and experiences across all programs and levels.
• Program Representation: Across all HSC programs to strengthen the communication and representation for all skaters 

We welcome eligible members from all skating programs and backgrounds. Previous Board experience isn’t necessary.

Directors share a responsibility to act in the best interests of the entire club, work collaboratively, respect confidentiality and contribute to responsible governance.

AGM Details and Nominations

Date: November 18, 2026
Time: 8-9 pm
Location: HSC Boardroom 

Interested in joining the Board? Please complete the linked forms below, and submit both to Lori Cherwaty, hscsecretary@hamiltonskating.ca by November 13th, 2026

HSC BOD Nomination form .pdf

Board Expectations & Responsibility Acknowledgement .pdf

Nominations and elections will follow the club’s constitution and applicable eligibility requirements.

Our Future, Together

We’re proud of the progress we’ve made and excited about what’s ahead.

Our focus remains on building a financially strong, well-managed and inclusive club where every skater has the opportunity to thrive and every family feels valued.

We hope you’ll consider being part of HSC’s next chapter.

Thank you to our coaches, volunteers, skaters and families for everything you contribute.

Warm regards,

Hamilton Skating Club Board of Directors