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History of Western Michigan’s Synchronized Skating Team. Presented By: Erica Dunkel. http://www.wmubroncos.com/sports/skating/. Before Varsity. WMU’s skating team has been around for 8 years.
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History of Western Michigan’s Synchronized Skating Team Presented By: Erica Dunkel http://www.wmubroncos.com/sports/skating/
Before Varsity • WMU’s skating team has been around for 8 years. • High school and College aged students participated on the sport with no funding or support from the University. • It wasn’t until the season of 2000 that WMU’s athletic Department supported the decision to make skating a varsity sport.
What is synchronized skating? • “synchro” as often referred to by many participants, is an on-ice sport that has 20-24 people moving in step and motion together. • They move as dancers, athletes and produce a mirrored appearance to the audience as they skate with rhythm in unison. Hence…to be synchronized as one. • Synchro here at Western has become more popular around campus and has continued support of all students on campus.
Skating with Heart • Despite the decision in the fall of 2003, the skating team was cut from the athletic department due to state budget cuts and other Title IX compliance issues. http://www .wmubroncos.com/sports/skating/
The Future of Synchro here at WMU • After a top 6 finish at National’s, WMU is now on an international circuit where they will represent the U.S.A at international competitions. One this year they presented at was in Mississauga, Ontario with a 6th place finish. • Will there be a team in the future despite the cuts…Absolutely. • WMU has a very strong backbone of parents, community and the skaters themselves. • Practice at 6a.m. most mornings with full class loads and no scholarships makes disciplined and strong-willed student athletes.
Quiz Time:What year did WMU go varsity? • A. 1999 • B. 2000 • C. 2001 • D. 2002
Correct answer!!! Pressme
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Biography of Me • My name is Erica Dunkel and I am an Elementary Education major with a minor in physical education. • I am a 4 year member of the WMU skating team and have received letter awards all years. • Although skating has been a very important part of my life, education has been far more important. • Having a physical background with sports, I want to encourage my students whether in a gym or classroom to stay physically fit for life participating in all types of activities.