Cutting edge: Effort seeks to give Trine skaters shot at Team USA

ANGOLA, Ind. (07/01/2024) — Trine University's skating programs have already made noise on the national stage.

Now they're going for international gold.

Trine skating is raising funds to launch a new senior-level synchronized skating team this fall. Members of the team will be eligible for consideration for Team USA.

Trine's team will be one of only eight senior-level synchronized skating teams in the nation.

"Every skater dreams of taking the ice to represent our nation, and Trine University's skating teams have shown they can compete with the best," said Rachel Franchock, head figure and synchronized skating coach at Trine. "We want to give our team members the opportunity to reach their dream of competing and achieving at this next level."

Funds raised will help the new team travel to events in California and possibly Europe, depending on their competition assignment, as well as assist with travel expenses for Trine's existing skating teams.

To donate toward the effort, go to trine.link/synchro-gift.

Launched in 2018 following the opening of the Thunder Ice Arena, Trine's skating program is one of only three fully funded varsity skating programs in the United States.

In its short history, the program has seen dramatic growth and success. Trine's figure skating team was undefeated conference champion in 2023, while its synchronized skating team has placed as high as fourth in national competition and won gold in individual events.

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Members of Trine University's 2022 synchronized skating team perform. Trine skating is raising funds to launch a new senior-level synchronized skating team this fall. (File photo by Dean Orewiler / Trine University)