Spring Break
Miami captures 1st U.S. medal at World Champ
Trish Engelman
Issue date: 4/3/07 Section: Front Page
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After placing third in the short program Friday, the RedHawks posted the second-highest score of 198.71 in Saturday's free skate to become the first U.S. team to win a medal at the ISU World Championships.
"It was an unbelievable experience," said senior Jenna King. "Knowing that we had represented our country and made history was something we have worked our whole careers for."
Miami trailed Sweden's Team Surprise who recorded a score of 222.24, and followed up on last season's fourth place finish.
Miami and Team Surprise were the only two teams to place in the top three for both the short and free skate program. The Red and White placed above Canada's Nexxice, United State's Haydenettes and Finland's Team Unique, who rounded out the overall top five.
"For Miami to be the only U.S. team to medal at the World Championships is really a testament to all of the hard work put in by the skaters and coaches," said Assistant Coach Carla DeGirolamo.
The RedHawks have seen a great deal of change since the 2005-06 season. Narrowing their team from 20 to 16 skaters has put more emphasis on each individual, which has ultimately forced the RedHawks to capitalize on their talent.
The RedHawks prepared for a solid month before appearing with a new routine at the World Championship.
"Our choreographer worked so hard and came out with a long program that was truly amazing," said Head Coach Vicki Korn.
The long program was the reason behind Miami's catapult from third to second place. Perhaps another reason for their success can be attributed to their intense practices, which required
dedication and undivided attention from each skater.
"It was our mental attitude every day at practice that contributed to our win," King said. "It is what every single skater brought to the ice."
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