ANGOLA, IND. – The Trine University Athletic Director Matt Land announced the hiring of Rachel Franchock as Head Coach of the school's new women's synchronized skating team which will begin competition starting in the 2018-19 season.

"We are happy to announce the addition of synchronized skating and Rachel to the athletic department," Land said, "Her energy and excitement for the sport are contagious and I am confident she will do a great job."

Franchock is originally from Michigan and grew up skating in the Detroit area. She has competed nationally and internationally as a member of Team USA, culminating with a trip to the World Synchronized Skating Championship in 2010.

"I am excited to join the Trine family and to help build a varsity figure and synchronized skating program," said Franchock, "It is a once in a lifetime chance to work with an institution that has shown a commitment to creating a premier collegiate skating program. Trine's brand new facilities and support ensure that we will quickly grow into such a program."

Most recently Franchock coached the Washington Ice Emeralds Synchronized Skating Team to their first ever podium finishes in 2016. Before that, she taught skating classes at Michigan Technological University as well as coaching and skating for the university's intercollegiate figure skating team.

Trine completed construction of its new $7.5 million ice arena August of 2017. The 700-seat arena includes an NCAA-compliant rink, locker rooms, concessions, a pro shop, a VIP lounge, a weight room, a training room, and an area for skate rental and sharpening. The arena currently hosts men's and women's NCAA hockey teams in addition to two men's ACHA hockey teams.