“Best of Both Worlds” – Colorado Figure Skating Team Rallies Together for Intercollegiate Championship in LA

At Colorado State, razor-sharp blades glide effortlessly across the frozen surface as the club figure skating team moves as one, bonded by a unique camaraderie. At the helm is Selene Guilfoyle, a former teammate turned coach who embodies the team’s grit and solidarity. Having once competed in the national intercollegiate finals herself, Guilfoyle now leads her peers with unwavering determination.

As team president Kristen Barclay looks back on their past triumphs, she sets her sights even higher after a season of rebuilding. Barclay reflects on the unique blend of individual talent and team support that defines collegiate skating, fostering tight-knit connections among its members.

A figure skating team or family?

Juggling personal achievements and team objectives can be daunting, but this group has managed to create an inclusive atmosphere. Whether injured or not, they join hands as a united front, embodying a culture of support.

For Hailey Robinson, a newcomer to the collegiate stage, transitioning from an individual sport to a team dynamic has been invigorating. She is welcomed with open arms and surrounded by cheers and motivational words from her teammates. “We always cheer super loud. (Also the) general one-on-ones with people, those little talks where they’re like, ‘Hey, you’ve got this. Even if you don’t feel prepared, just go out there and do your best,” said Hailey. 

Robinson’s experience mirrors that of the team, which boasts a diverse range of skills, from experienced gold medalists to beginners. In this supportive environment, Guilfoyle embraces and values inclusivity, extending a warm invitation to anyone who shares a love for skating. To her, the collegiate platform is a space for growth and development, no matter one’s skating background.

The bandwagon now moves to Los Angeles!

As the team prepares for their ultimate showdown, a palpable excitement permeates the atmosphere. Their destination? The vibrant City of Los Angeles, where their goal is to secure a spot in the prestigious national championships. Yet, their motivation extends far beyond achieving victory.

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For Robinson, the art of skating represents a symbol of tenacity, reflecting the challenges one must overcome in life. Each graceful glide over the ice embodies a sense of joy and strength for her. And for the entire Colorado State figure skating team, the ice rink holds a more profound significance than just athletic success. The passionate figure skating enthusiast said, “Just when I get out on the ice, there’s just pure joy. I’m just so happy to be out there doing it, and it has taught me so many important life lessons, the main one being perseverance. When you fall down in life, you get back up quickly and try again.”

Amidst rigorous competition, they discovered the unifying forces of teamwork, perseverance, and a shared love for their craft. Together, they navigate the wintry terrain of collegiate figure skating, forging unbreakable bonds that surpass mere competition.

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