2-year-old team gets ready to hit ice at nationals

Mohawks, picks and spirals -- sounds more like the newest hair trends rather than just a few of the most complicated tricks performed on the ice. The IU Figure Skating Team has competed for two years as a club sport, but in that time has managed to make a name for itself not only across campus, but has started gaining national recognition.\nFor those who wish to come out to the ice rink and just have some fun with friends, the recreational division is perfect for them, said sophomore Katie Laughner. However, the competitive squad takes much more time, skill and devotion. \n"We have a recreational division that is for people who either want to further or improve their skills, and a competitive division for those who want to represent IU on a national level," said Laughner, founder and president of the club. \nSixteen women comprise the squad. Most have plenty of prior experience, usually commencing in youth lessons. During the season the team practices three days a week on the ice at the Frank Southern Ice Arena, for at least three hours total. They also train during offseason about two to three times a week for an hour. \nThe ice is not the only place these women stay in shape and strengthen their muscles. Many performers create their own cross-training routines including running, aerobics and cycling. \nHowever, what made this year a stand-out for this team was the skaters' effort to earn a spot at Nationals.\n"There are two or three qualifying competitions each year, held from November through February. Once the points are totaled (throughout the entire season), the top three schools from each U.S. section are invited to Nationals," said coach Katherine Jorck.\nThis year, the women received second place in the Midwest Division, earning them the much-coveted Nationals ticket against such rivals as Western Michigan, Northern Michigan, Michigan State, University of Michigan, Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Ohio State, Ohio University and Eastern Michigan.\nThis year Nationals were held at Miami of Ohio, another viable opponent. \n"Our first trip to Nationals was exciting and hard-fought," Jorck said. "We were up against tough competition." \nNot only was the opposition stiff, but IU's midsize team is a club sport through the IU Division of Recreational Sports, while other schools feature varsity squads. \nDuring the championship, the team also showcased its synchronized skating program, as no other schools signed up to compete in the event, Jorck said.\nIU finished the intense and demanding competition in sixth place with a total of 32 points. However, the team not only received sixth out of nine competing teams, but out of all teams in the nation.\n"It is very rare for a second-year team to be nationally ranked, and for us to achieve that is a testament to our hard work and dedication," Laughner said.\nBecause of its club standing, the IU figure skaters face tough competition in the Midwest, especially because the Hoosiers are part of a newer sports program such as figure skating.\n"For IU to make it to nationals as a second year team is very impressive," Jorck said. "These girls have worked incredibly hard, and have earned the respect of their rival schools. I am proud of all of them."\n-- Contact Staff Writer Jacqueline Faine at jfaine@indiana.edu.