Is synchronized skating a varsity sport?

How do I get in to the University of Michigan?

Are there any scholarships available for synchronized skating?

How much does it cost to skate on the team?

What is the difference between the senior and collegiate teams?

Can I still practice and compete in freestyle and dance?

Is synchronized skating a varsity sport?

No! We are officially a "club varsity" sport, a level below full varsity status. We are still administered by the Club Sports Department, but have closer ties to the Athletic Department and are able to receive many of the same benefits as varsity teams. However, this status does not necessarily grant us any more financial assistance, and does not guarantee that we are any closer to receiving full varsity status. 
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How do I get in to the University of Michigan?

The University of Michigan is a very elite school, often being referred to as "the Harvard of the Midwest." Admission standards are extremely high, especially for out of state students. If you want to skate for U of M, you must first be admitted to the University. We recommend applying as early as possible in the fall of your senior year. Just like any top school, your high school grades, coursework, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and essays all factor in the admissions process. We have no influence over the admissions office, so you must make sure that you work hard in school in addition to skating. We know it's hard, but it's worth it! [top]

Are there any scholarships available for synchronized skating?

No. Because synchro is not yet recognized as an NCAA sport, there are no scholarships available in the U.S., even from schools with varsity programs. However, there are many other sources of financial aid to help offset tuition and housing costs, including need and merit-based scholarships from the University, student loans, work-study, and outside scholarships. Check with the U of M Office of Financial Aid for more information.
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How much does it cost to skate on the team?

Our costs vary from year to year depending on ice costs, travel, how much outside funding we receive, etc. We are committed to fielding as competitive teams as possible, and our training, costumes, coaching, and clothing costs reflect this. The senior team generally costs more than the collegiate team, simply because they have more ice time and two programs. Just like any competitive synchronized team, skating at Michigan is a significant financial investment. However, we understand that this is a large burden for most families, and try to do whatever we can to make it easier by fundraising and accepting tax deductible donations.
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What is the difference between the senior and collegiate teams?

Senior and collegiate are two different levels of competition in the United States Figure Skating Association. Senior is the highest and most competitive level of synchronized skating. The teams consist of 12 to 20 skaters over 14 years old, and compete a technical program (short) and a freeskate (long). Senior teams in the U.S. consist of both college-based and club-based teams. The top senior teams in the United States compete internationally against other senior teams, with the very best teams competing at the annual World Championships. Teams in the collegiate division consist of up to 20 skaters, all of whom must be full-time students at the school they represent. Collegiate teams compete one program, a freeskate, and there are currently no international opportunities for collegiate teams. The collegiate division is growing quickly as more schools form teams each year, and the teams become more competitive each year. At Michigan, both the senior and collegiate teams are very competitive in their respective divisions. Currently, the collegiate team requires slightly less time commitment, although both teams are extremely dedicated.
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Can I still practice and compete in freestyle and dance?

Yes! The synchronized teams are just one part of the University of Michigan Figure Skating Club. The club also offers members a chance to compete in freestyle, solo dance, and team maneuvers at intercollegiate competitions, similar to the way high school competitions are run. There are two or three general club practice sessions per week at our campus rink, Yost Ice Arena, and many skaters also take advantage of ice time, coaching staff, and test sessions at the nearby Ann Arbor Ice Cube.
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