Eighteen years ago, a couple of skaters and coaches came together in Anaheim, California, and created a new synchronized skating team, a fast growing yet relatively new discipline with in figure skating. They called themselves the ICE'Kateers, and consisted of two ISI (International Skating Institute) teams. As the years went on, the ICE'Kateers became one of the largest teams in Southern California and proudly represented the Glacier Falls Figure Skating Club. Skaters of any age or level could come and find a team, making so many girls fall in love with synchro.

This was the last season for the ICE'Kateers. Next season, they will be merging with another Glacier Falls team, the Rockers, to create Matrix synchro. This merge was part of an effort to bring all of Southern California synchro together.

I started with ICE'Kateers about six or seven years ago. One of my best friends was on their open juvenile team and asked me to join in. That year, our team had exactly eight members, the bare minimum to compete. We skated to Diana Ross, and took home the pewter medal at the Sectional Championships. From then on, I was obsessed with synchro. I spent four seasons as an ICE'Kateer, with many programs in between. I've been a Spice Girl, an airplane, and a matador with some of my best friends. We won medals and made memories that will last a lifetime.

Though the ICE'Kateers and I did not end our relationship on the best of terms, I still owe so much to them. Without this team, I would not have had the opportunity to travel the country and visit so many amazing cities. I would not have discovered Adrian College. I would not have made so many friendships that I wouldn't trade for anything. Most importantly, I wouldn't have learned so many life lessons that have helped me throughout my journey.

I'm sad to see the end of the team that gave me my start, but I know that the future is bright. There are so many skaters eager to join Matrix and build it up to its full potential. I am so excited to see Matrix and competitions and watch the skaters show the country what SoCal skaters are made of.

Thank you, ICE'Kateers for teaching me, for bringing me some of my best friends, and helping me become a part of the sport I love. Thank you for everything.