The second-place finish came about a month after the team took first place for the 10th time at the Eastern Sectional Championships, Jan. 26, in Richmond, Va. The last time the Blue Hens won silver at nationals was in 2000.
“Our team was so successful this year at nationals because of the absolute commitment and dedication of every teammate, coach and trainer,” said senior Meredith Tenerow, the team's president.
In Providence, the team of 24 female university students performed a four-minute and 40-second routine that depicted a young girl telling four stories of winter--stories of loneliness, childhood memories, sports and unity and celebration and tradition.
“Our team performed our best program ever on Saturday,” said senior Alyson Salonger, the team's vice president. “Everything we worked hard for and all of our practicing had come together beautifully. Our victory was well-deserved.”
Tenerow, an exercise physiology major, said during the few weeks leading up to nationals the team worked on “tweaking the program to make it function better, such as getting a straighter line or crisper extension on footwork.”
The Blue Hens practiced on the ice since September. Since January, on-ice practices increased from two each week to three, said coaches Wendy Deppe and Megan O'Donnell. While not on the ice, the skaters worked out and did weight training three days every week to ensure they were in top condition and prepared to compete at nationals.
“It amazes me to think back to the beginning of the season when I met all the new girls at Activities Night and the first practice,” Tenerow said. “We have come so far this season.”
The unity and dedication both on and off the ice has helped the team grow and develop into a nationally successful synchronized skating team. “If it weren't for the 23 other girls, I would not have this medal around my neck,” said Salonger, an accounting and finance double major.
“We are all so proud to represent the University of Delaware,” Salonger said. “We love to scream the fight song while at competition, and we all wear our colors proudly.”
For more information about the UD synchronized skating team, visit [http://copland.udel.edu/stu-org/synchro].
Article by Maura Brady, AS '08