Maximum heart

“Time truly flies when you are doing what you love,” confesses Vanessa Hettinger.

“I completely believe my dad when he said that university is great because it’s something that can’t be taken away from me—and it’s a solid base on which to build a future—but that I should always follow my heart.”

Vanessa graduated with a BA in political science and economics and a certificate in globalization and governance, but it was her passion for coaching that kept her on the ice, even after her playing days with the U of A Pandas were over.

For the past five years, the 26-year old has been a business partner of Steffany Hanlen in Quantum Speed. The company motto is simple: “Technique plus power equals speed.”

The high performance skating system—designed for hockey and ringette players—focuses on developing full-body motion techniques that translate into stronger, more powerful movement. With improved skills, the players skate faster and smarter.

And, with a growing client base of amateur and professional players whose ages range from six to 24, Vanessa is well on her way into making Quantum Speed a nationally recognized training program that is both results-oriented and player-centred. It is recommended and contracted by the top coaches, scouts and players in Canada and the U.S. A Colorado coach described it as, “The best and most comprehensive performance skating clinic I have ever seen. They completely evaluated players from skate fitting to their stride… They know skating and how to get players to reach their maximum potential.”

Following her heart also means giving back to the community. Vanessa collects toys for Santa’s Anonymous and, given her interest in government, volunteers as a polling clerk during elections. She enjoys traveling, golfing and tried whitewater rafting with her family this summer.

Perhaps partner Steffany best captured the very essence of Vanessa: “She is professional, motivated, creative and talented… a role model for hundreds of children and adults across North America.

“Her energy and enthusiasm inspire—and exhaust—her peers as well as her family, friends and co-workers.” √

Photo by Terry Bourque