Mariposa School of Skating to be run under new owners

Mariposa School of Skating sold The renowned Mariposa School of Skating has been sold. CTV Barrie's Aileen Doyle has more.

The renowned Mariposa School of Skating has been sold.

Since 1973, the ups and the downs of the school have been under the ownership of founder Doug Leigh. He’s helped train Elvis Stojko, Brian Orser, dozens of Olympians and world champions.

Now he’s passing on the torch.

“I need that youth in the place. That's why I use the word blood transfusion. I need that shot of adrenaline, which these guys have to let this thing have the boost it deserves.”

In a few weeks, long-time coaches David Islam and Paul Matheson will become the new official owners of the school.

“The buck is stopping here. That's a bit scary, but we're looking forward to it,” says Islam.

They don't plan to change much, saying they don't want to change what has made the school successful. However, Matheson will be working on more skating training for hockey players.

“The elite figure skating is still going to be a huge and the biggest part of what we do, but trying to be something that the whole community can use.”

Leigh won't be too far away. He plans to stick around as a director, helping with the transition.

“I’m wise enough, and still young enough that I can watch the next step of it and catch my breath at the same time.”

The official ownership change will take place on June 1.