Aug. 12, 2002--Members of the public will have a chance to see world champion skaters premiere their newest programs free of charge beginning at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 28, at the University of Delaware. National and international champions will join other skaters of all ages and abilities in presenting UD’s Ice Skating Science Development Center’s Summer School end-of-season program.

The show, organized by UD skating coach Jeff DiGregorio, is being held in memory of his mother, the late Betty DiGregorio, who was an ardent supporter of the UD skating program. During her lifetime, Mrs. DiGregorio took in many skaters, including Olympic champions Tara Lipinski and Sarah Hughes, both coached by her son early in their careers.

“My mom housed, fed and carted skaters to school and to the rink all of her life,” DiGregorio said. “In her own way, she dedicated her life to skating.”

DiGregorio, who has coached at UD for 16 years, said he held the first skating show as a surprise for his mother’s 65th birthday three years ago. Since then, he has continued the tradition in her memory.

For more information, call the center at (302) 831-2868.