2007 WORLD UNIVERSIADE GAMES

The Winter Universiade Games was an experience of a lifetime for the team and we were proud to be part of a historical moment for Synchronized Skating. This event was quite different from any International or World Champion event that we have ever attended. Moments such as the constant security and police escorts, accreditation procedures, Opening Ceremonies, meals at the Olympic Village, practice schedules and competing for Canada as part of a much larger team are memories that impacted the girls and will last forever.

Walking into the Opening Ceremonies with the rest of Team Canada and seeing the crowd dressed all in white, camera's flashing, music blaring, flags waiving, was amazing.

The audience at the competition was wonderful. Synchronized skating had the largest attendance so far at the games. For the most part the audience was experiencing synchronized skating for the first time and loved it. They clapped, cheered, ooh'd and ah'd and appreciated each team, no matter what their nationality... although the Italian team was clearly their favorite.

We were very proud to represent Canada but were disappointed with our 5th place finish. The short program, although skated without a fall, had many errors that resulted in lower GOE’s. After a rough official free practice, where one skater was kicked and received stitches, the team pulled together for a solid free skate. During the free program, one skater fell, but the program was skated with determination. That performance widened the gap between 5th and 6th but couldn't close the gap between 4th and 5th.

The top 5 countries in the World sent teams for this competition... they were very strong and competitive. Each of the top teams (except the USA) had to adjust their roster in order to meet the entry requirements of the Universiade Games.

The Team Canada Mission support was outstanding and made the transition from being an individual and new team into a much larger team, seamless. We never felt alone or isolated. Whatever we needed was just a phone call away. They were always available and easily spotted whether at lunch, practice or at any of the other venues.

Cheering on our fellow Canadians was an opportunity that we wouldn't have missed and an aspect of the games that we enjoyed.

We hope that synchronized skating made a lasting and positive impression on FISU and that this discipline of the ISU will remain as a sport in the Universiade Games and eventually appear on the Olympic stage.