ISI Skaters Create S’more Synchro and Showdown Memories!
The historic Doug Woog Arena in South St. Paul, Minn., was the setting for the 2024 Synchronized Championships & MinneShowdown on April 6, and the facility did not disappoint!
“We had enthusiastic teams, eager to be at the event, and they all enjoyed the S’mores camping theme,” said ISI Skating Programs & National Events Director Kim Hansen. “Barb Yackel [Blades N Motion skating school founder and coach] went out of her way to make the competition wonderful. The arena was beautiful and spotless, the hospitality was amazing, and the schedule was comfortable, allowing all teams to get to multiple events. Plus, we had great springtime weather in Minnesota, and St. South Paul is a quaint community.”
As the Teen Premiere Champion of Synchro Champs, the Blade Brigade (Gold) of the St. Louis Kennedy Recreation Center, took home the Boyd Wietecter Trophy, named in honor of the late Mr. Wietecter, who was a staunch supporter of the ISI. It was an exceptional full-circle moment as Mr. Wietecter was employed by the St. Louis County Parks for 35 years, including 26 years as director of the Kennedy Recreation Complex!
M Health Fairview Sports Center of Woodbury, Minn., was crowned the winner of the MinneShowdown.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Total Performances: 568
Youngest Skater: Jamie Reis, 1, M Health Fairview Sports Center
Most Events: Breelie Schmuecker, Hadley Rhein, Holly Sorgert and Aubrey Lovins, 6 events each and all from M Health Fairview Sports Center
Largest Skating Team: 81 skaters, M Health Fairview Sports Center
Events Included: Ensembles, Production Teams, Synchronized Teams, Team Compulsories
Submitted Photos
Photos by Perkins Media Group
The 2025 Synchronized Championships & Texas Showdown will take place April 5-6 at Children’s Health StarCenter in McKinney, Texas. Test and Entry Deadline is Feb. 3.
Established in 1959, the Ice Sports Industry (ISI) — creator of America’s first learn-to-skate curriculum — is an international trade association encompassing all aspects of the ice sports industry. Our goal is to promote ice skating as a participant sport and recreational activity for everyone — all ages and abilities. Learn more about the ISI Ice Skating Program.