Skating for the glory of God

Liberty University’s figure and synchronized skating teams came together to entertain the community during their final major event of the semester, Praisefest, which took place April 20 at 7 p.m.

Students have been preparing for the event throughout the semester, with many opting to come up with their own choreography and song choices for their routines. The event was themed “Award-Winning Music by Award-Winning Skaters.”

Rather than competing for a score, the show offered the skaters the ability to perform for their friends, family and the community.

The director of the event was Haley Gram, assistant coach of the Liberty Synchronized Skating Team. Hannah Pulley, head coach of the Liberty Synchronized Skating Team, also helped plan the event.

Seniors Kamden Carrera, Kristine Neumeyer, Rebekah McBrayer, Jackie Hagar and Emma Rietveld were also honored during the event for their dedication to the figure skating program.

Figure skating head coach Courtney Kirschke emphasized that the event takes the pressure off the skaters, allowing them to end their year with a fun performance opportunity.

“I think just having no pressure on the skates (is my favorite part),” Kirschke said. “A lot of them create their own routines, so it’s really fun for them to go out there and have fun without the pressure of competition. This is just a celebration of all we’ve done and our successes this year.”

Freshman Rachel Duncan enjoyed being able to skate alongside her other friends from the team during the event.

“Being a part of this team is like being a part of a big family. Every single one of these girls is so sweet and encouraging in every moment,” Duncan said. “I am just truly so thankful to the Lord that I am part of this team, and being able to get to know all of these girls has been the highlight of my freshman year.”

For more information on Liberty’s figure skating program, click here.

Smith is the news editor for the Liberty Champion. Follow her on X