LAS VEGAS, Nev. – The Trine University Collegiate Synchronized Skating Team clinched a second consecutive medal at the 2024 U.S. Synchronized Skating Championships, establishing themselves as a top team in the division. The squad skated a clean program on Saturday, earning 105.61 points and the Pewter medal on the nation's biggest stage.
"Coming off of our best season to date last year, I felt a lot of pressure to help this team replicate results" explained Head Coach Rachel Franchock, "But from the very beginning, this group of skaters was ready to level up. It's been a special season to learn and grow with a team who wants the best from themselves and each other and I'm very proud of the work they put in to bring so much success to Trine."
This year's team broke the school's record for points three times this season (first with a 97.22 at Dr. Porter Classic, then 100.73 at Midwestern Sectionals and now 105.61 at the Championships) and the team earned medals at every event they entered this year which has never been done by a Trine team before. While the collegiate division in general was more competitive this season, the team proved they have what it takes to keep up and excel.
On Saturday, a crowd of Trine supporters cheered the team on from the stands as they set in their opening position for their Romeo and Juliet themed program. Skating to a combination of classic Romeo and Juliet songs as well as a dark cover of 'Can't Help Falling in Love', the team performed their tortured love story with beauty and confidence. They earned full calls on many of their elements, including a level four Synchronized Spin, Twizzle, and Traveling Element.
"From the first day of practice, this team made it a point to come together as a unit" shared senior Alexandra Davidson, "We focused on learning to communicate and work collaboratively towards a common goal this year. Being able to experience the payoff of our efforts every step of the way throughout the season has been really special."
This year has marked many record accomplishments for all of Trine University's Synchronized Skating Teams. For the first time in program history, all three synchro teams medaled at every competition they entered this year. Open-Collegiate also improved their Conference ranking from fourth to second and became back-to-back Tri-State champions. Open-Adult earned their third consecutive podium finish at U.S. Figure Skating's Midwestern Sectional Championship competition and won Tri-States this season.
Looking to the future, Trine University's Synchronized Skating teams are anticipating more growth for the 2024-2025 season and are inviting interested skaters to attend auditions which run from Saturday March 23 to Sunday, March 24. Those wishing to register can do so by using the online registration form and questions can be directed to coach Franchock by email.
"This is an incredible time to join our program" expressed Coach Franchock, "We've created a supportive training environment that has consistently become stronger each season. If you want to skate in college, you should absolutely check us out."
