Born and raised in Port Colborne Nancy began her early skating career as a young girl. After a few years of training she ventured out with her brother to train under the likes of the well renowned Toronto Cricket & Curling Club, The Buffalo Skating Club, and The Tam O'Shanter Club. From there Nancy and her brother Rick proceeded to the Canadian Championships in 1970 while (Nancy being only 12 years of age) captured a Silver medal in Novice Pairs. In 1971 & 1973 Nancy and Rick were crowned Bronze Medalists in Junior Pairs. After a successful career in pair skating, 20 year old Nancy ventured out east to Newfoundland coaching figure skating. One year turned into five. From there Nancy tipped her toe into power skating and the rest is history.
Nancy has taught not hundreds but thousands upon thousands of skaters over the years. Many minor hockey players have benefitted from her teachings, and she has even trained many NHLers including Patrick Kane, Dan Girardi, Paul Bissonnette, Matt Ellis, Dan Paille, and many more. When a dinner meeting turned into a coaching partnership, Gallardi & Gruhl Power Skating was formed. Twelve years later they are still going strong following their motto, “can’t skate, can’t play”. For over 40 years (and counting), Nancy has touched the lives of countless skaters young and old and has been recognized as a very successful and effective skating coach. Nancy is proud to call Port Colborne home, and can regularly be found at Vale Health & Wellness Centre providing group and private lessons.
