Barry and Louise Soper caught the attention of the figure skating world as early as 1967 when they won the national novice ice dance title. It proved to be the first in a long line of Canadian championships. In an eight year span, Barry and Louise won the ice dance title six times and finished third the other two times. In accomplishing this remarkable feat, they became the first Canadian skaters to win Canadian titles in all three categories: senior, junior and novice.

They were also the first Canadian team to win the senior national ice dance title in more than three consecutive years. Nor were they stangers to the international scene, competing in the world figure skating championships four consecutive times, from 1971-74, recording three straight top-ten placings. They also represented Canada in the North American championships and took part in a number of special competitions including winning a silver medal at the prestigious Skate Canada competition held in Calgary in 1973.

In recognition of their achievements, Barry and Louise have been officially honoured in the House of Parliament and the BC Legislature. The Sopers have been active in charity as well, serving three years with the Schmockey show for the Kinsmen Mother’s March for Crippled Children and two years with the Jimmy Fund Cancer Foundation at Harvard University. They still maintain their involvement in skating through part-time teaching and the staging of ice dance seminars thoughout British Columbia.

Robin Jones, Heather Jones, and Alex Fulton (coaches)

Home Club – Hollyburn Country Club

Team Members:
Barry Soper, Louise Soper.