Saskatchewan’s Hockey Factory 2026 launches with Paul Matheson, Skating Coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs, whose specialty lies in elite skating mechanics, edge control, balance, and efficiency. Paul runs Evolution Skating in Barrie Ont., and is known for breaking down skating into precise, repeatable movements that improve speed, agility, and overall performance, helping players skate faster with less wasted energy.  

Tuesday, May 19^th to Sunday, May 24^th,

Six Hours Instruction, Athlete/Instructor ratio 10:1

Paul Matheson is widely recognized as one of hockey’s leading skating specialists, with more than 30 years of experience as a full-time professional skating instructor. Throughout his career, he has worked extensively with elite athletes across both hockey and figure skating, building a reputation for technical excellence and precision. A defining chapter of his career was his role at the internationally renowned Mariposa School of Skating, where he served as a specialty coach focused exclusively on edges, power, and skating technique. In that capacity, Paul worked with skaters of all ages and levels, including an impressive roster of National, International, and Olympic-level figure skating competitors.

Drawing on his background as a lifelong hockey player, Paul successfully translated the advanced principles of figure skating into the hockey environment. By carefully adapting skating mechanics to the unique demands of the game, he has helped develop players who are not only faster, but also more balanced, agile, and efficient in their movement. His coaching experience spans the full development pathway, including minor hockey, junior hockey, NCAA programs, and professional leagues. In recognition of his expertise, Paul joined the Toronto Maple Leafs’ player development team in 2022, serving in a specialized skating development role.

At the core of Paul’s coaching philosophy is a strong belief in developing individual skill and technique. He emphasizes pushing players beyond their comfort zones to establish a stronger skating foundation, which then allows them to expand their skill set and apply it effectively in a wide range of on-ice situations. Paul is known for ensuring his athletes understand not just what to do, but how and why to do it. Through evidence-based instruction, focused training, and purposeful repetition, his goal is to help players continually elevate their skating abilities and consistently distinguish themselves at every level of the game.