Two Sparta middle schoolers qualify for national championships

Two Sparta Middle School students start their days even earlier on weekends, than on school days.
Gabriella (Gabi) Rodek and Kaitlyn (Katie) Bottoni are members of The Synchroettes, a synchronized skating team based in West Orange. Gabi skates with the Novice Team and Katie skates with the Juvenile Team. In addition to hours of training on and off the ice, they spend many hours training on their own.
This week all those hours paid off as both teams were selected to compete at the US National Synchronized Championships in Plymouth Michigan later this month.
Synchronized ice skating is the fastest growing discipline in figure skating. According to the United States Figure Skating Association website there are over 5000 skaters in the sectional championships every year, representing over 600 teams.
Synchronized skating is a team sport in which 8-20 skaters perform. The judging system is the same as with singles, pairs and ice dance, with importance placed on teamwork, speed, challenging sequences, and intricate formations.
Gabi's parents are excited for her.
“At 13 years old Gabi has been skating on a synchronized skating team for 6 years and absolutely loves the team experience," said Robyn Rodek. "She is extremely excited for the opportunities ahead for herself and her team mates."
She also notes that learning about teamwork is good for her daughter in many ways.
“They have made friends from all over. When we go to sectionals we see friends from all over the east coast.” said Corinne Flammer-Bottoni, Kaitlyn’s mom.
All three of her daughters are in synchronized skating.
“Synchro has been a big part of our life, I am so grateful to be able to watch my girls grow as athletes and as people in this sport.
At the U.S. Figure Skaing Sectional Championships, the Synchroettes Novice team earned a bronze medal and achieved their highest score this season. The Synchroettes Juvenile Team also achieved a season high score, and qualified for nationals. Synchroettes Junior Team who will compete nationally, too.
For more information on synchronized skating you may visit the USFSA website at https://www.usfigureskating.org/programs?id=83953
Information about The Synchroettes can be found on their website www.synchroettes.com
Synchroettes Novice team
Synchroettes Juvenile team