People don't realize there is more to figure-skating. After sampling the options, I fell in love with synchronized skating. Teams usually have 20 skaters with up to four alternates. Although 20 are not required, more points are given to teams with the maximum number of skaters, since that increases the degree of difficulty. Synchronized skaters perform a series of choreographed maneuvers, lasting three to four minutes.
Teams do a variety of formations, such as circles, blocks and pinwheels, in perfect unison.
The team is also given points for speed and originality of program and costume. Footwork and edge quality are also very important. Watching us is like looking into a kaleidoscope and seeing the shapes change as you turn the tube. The ultimate goal is to win a spot in the annual National Synchronized Skating competition. A team must first win a top-four spot in its home sectional competition.