Mentor, OH – Trine University's synchronized skating program expanded to house two competitive teams this season and now offers an Open-Collegiate and Collegiate level team.
"This year we were able to bring on enough high-level skaters that afforded us the opportunity to have a team compete at the collegiate division which is a more competitive level than our synchro team competed at last year" said Coach Rachel Franchock, "We hope this expansion brings our program more visibility in the skating community and also encourages skaters of more diverse skill levels to find a home here at Trine."
The Collegiate team made their season debut at the Diamond Classic in Mentor, OH on November 2nd competing against synchro powerhouses, Miami University and Adrian College. The team performed a Pink Panther inspired program and showcased their training by executing a clean skate under the pressure of competition. They earned a total of 47 points placing 3rd and brought home Trine University's first collegiate synchronized skating medal.
"In addition to putting out our best performances at each competition, our goal this season is learn and grow" explained Franchock, "We have a very young team, with quite a few skaters who have never competed at a qualifying level before so we have a steep learning curve to work with but this group has the raw talent, work ethic and passion to go places. We're excited to keep perfecting our program and look towards building this team in the years to come."
The Open-Collegiate synchro team has also been hard at work this season and is ready to make their season debut at the Kick-Off Classic in Kalamazoo, MI on November 23rd. They will perform a Top Gun themed program and will compete against seven other universities from around the Midwest.