Synchro

Synchronized skating, or "synchro" is a specialized discipline of skating involving groups of eight or more skaters performing various group formations and maneuvers. The objective is for the team to perform as one unit executing circles, blocks, lines, wheels and intersections in unison to the music, while demonstrating quality edges, power and flow. Skate Canada’s SynchroSkate program includes a number of Synchronized Skating categories which accommodate skaters at any age and skill level. Synchronized skating has grown in popularity around the world and Canada is considered a world-leader in this discipline.

In Canada there is one event stream of Synchronized Skating and teams may register for the season in the following levels:

Specific technical requirements have been determined for each level based on skill development and age restrictions. Skater must be enrolled in a one day skating package in St Thomas  or their home club to participate in this program.  

The St Thomas Skating Club has 3 Synchronized Skating teams:  Beginner, Juvenile and Pre-Novice 

Beginner 1 & 2 Synchronized Skating Teams

Beginner 1 Synchro teams are allowed 8 - 16 participants and 4 alternates. There is no age limit although it's recommended the skaters are working on CanSkate Stage 4 or higher. Beginner 2 Synchro teams are allowed 8 - 16 participants and 4 alternates. Skaters must not have reached the age of 12 as of July 1st preceding the competition. At least 75% of the skaters must not have reached the age of 10 as of July 1st preceding the competition.  The focus is to continue developing basic forward and backward skating skills through the discipline of synchronized skating. Skaters are introduced to the idea of team work by participating in a fun team sport at this level. While the team works together to improve synchro skills and formations, each skater is responsible for maintaining individual skating abilities as well. Many skaters also compete in Singles Competitions.  This team trains both on-ice and off-ice and practices twice per week as a team as well as individual skating.

Juvenile Synchronized Skating Team

Juvenile Synchro teams are allowed 8 - 16 participants and 4 alternates. These skaters can range in age from under 10 to 15. Skaters must not have reached the age of 15 as of July 1st preceding the competition. At least 75% of the skaters must not have reached the age of 12 as of July 1st preceding the competition. The focus is on continued development of fundamental skating skills and incorporating these skills into synchronized skating specific elements. Awareness and enthusiasm for the various competitive opportunities is created at this stage. While the team works together to improve synchro skills and formations, each skater is responsible for maintaining individual skating abilities as well. Many skaters also compete in Singles Competitions.  This team trains both on-ice and off-ice and practices twice per week as a team as well as individual skating.

Pre-Novice Synchronized Skating Team

Pre-Novice Synchro teams are allowed 8 - 16 participants and 4 alternates. These skaters can range in age from 10 to 19. Skaters must not have reached the age of 19 as of July 1st preceding the competition. At least 75% of the skaters must have reached the age of 10 as of July 1st preceding the competition.  The focus is on continued development of fundamental skating skills and incorporating these skills into synchronized skating specific elements. Awareness and enthusiasm for the various competitive opportunities is created at this stage. While the team works together to improve synchro skills and formations, each skater continues to maintaining individual skating abilities as well. Many Pre-Novice skaters also compete in Singles Competitions. This team trains both on-ice and off-ice and practices twice per week as a team as well as individual skating.

Adult SYS Class III Synchronized Skating Team

Adult Class III Synchro teams are allowed 8 - 20 skaters. These skaters must have reached the age of 19 as of July 1st preceding the competition. At least 50% of the skaters must have reached the age of 35 as of July 1st preceding the competition. The maximum music time is 3:40 minutes (program times may be shorter and will receive no penalty).

Visit the website here

Synchro Workshops and Tryouts

In the spring, the St Thomas Skating Club holds Synchronized Skating workshops.  Tryouts for Synchro Teams are held at the end of the workshops.

The workshop teaches the fundamentals and mechanics of synchronized skating. Skaters will be divided in levels depending on age and skating level. Skaters participating in the workshops are under NO obligation to join however are more than welcome to try out! Tryouts are held in two sessions, following the workshops.

Watch the website or bulletin boards for details about tryout dates. Please contact a member of the board if you have any further questions.

Upcoming Synchro Competitions

Ontario Regional Synchronized Skating Championships

February 10 - 12, 2012 in Kingston, Ontario

Deveau/Winfield Synchronized Skating Invitational

March 24, 2012 in Leamington, Ontario