“You’ll see a little of everything in figure skating,” said the program’s director Melissa Williams. “All four levels will have a performance, there will be solos, some couples routines, and ice dancing performances as well.”
Synchronized figure skating works a bit like synchronized swimming. The teams are identically dressed, and the group tries to move as one, or in a specific rhythm. The judges look for consistency and synchronicity when considering their scores.
Two of the four teams that practice at Weibel Avenue Ice Rink recently competed in the Wallace Synchronized Classic in Fitchburg, Mass. The beginner team, comprised mainly of girls ages 6-10, finished in second place, and the pre-juvenile team, made up of girls 11-12, finished in third for their division.
While their results are encouraging, Williams stresses the importance of good sportsmanship and belief in one’s self and others as fundamental principles of the team.
“The keyword for this program is ‘believe,’” said Williams. “If you believe in yourself and believe in your teammates, you can make your goals happen.”
Perhaps you’re not quite ready to consider skating for a synchronized team, but you would like more help simply moving around on the ice. The ice rink’s Learn-To-Skate program could be your best option. The program has been run by Shawna Barber for the last five years and offers the basics in ice skating. The program is ideal if your child would like to figure skate or play hockey.
“Learn-To-Skate works as a bridge program to private lessons or different club teams as the skaters begin to improve,” said Barber.
If you’re interested in perhaps joining the club after their March 18 exhibition at Weibel Avenue Rink, tryouts are scheduled for April 21 from 6-8 p.m. at Clifton Park Arena. For more information about the club, visit www.saratogasynchro.info.
