What began as a small group of determined skaters trying something new has quickly become one of the most exciting programs at Skating Edge Ice Arena.
This season, LA Edge, Skating Edge’s official synchronized skating team, earned 1st place in their division at the 2026 Sweetheart Classic in Lakewood, CA — marking a major milestone for the growing synchro program in the South Bay.
For many of these skaters, it was their very first competition.
For the program, it was proof: the foundation is strong, and the future is bright.
From First Performance to First Place
Last spring, a group of skaters stepped onto the ice to explore synchronized skating. Most had never competed as a team. Some had never competed at all.
Under the leadership of Coach Alison Wade — who brings over 30 years of synchronized skating experience — the team focused first on fundamentals:
- Edge quality and power
- Clean formations and straight lines
- Proper tracking and spacing
- Smooth transitions
- True synchronization
But synchro is about more than technique.
“Our #1 rule is shared responsibility,” says Coach Alison. “Whether we succeed or struggle, they share the responsibility for the outcome.”
That mindset transformed a group of individuals into a team.
Their debut performance at the Skating Edge Holiday Show marked the first shift. But standing on the podium at the Sweetheart Classic marked something bigger — confidence.
LA EDGE debut performance AT SKATING EDGE WINTER RECITAL
What Makes Synchronized Skating Special?
Unlike traditional figure skating, which is often a solo pursuit, synchronized skating teaches collaboration, communication, and trust.
As Coach Alison explains:
“It gives skaters the opportunity to create something greater than the sum of its parts. It also teaches valuable life skills — collaboration, goal setting, leadership, problem solving.”
The skaters feel it too.
“I like that we have each other to rely on,” shared Maggie.
“It was challenging to skate with other people at first,” said Bella, “but it helps you improve because you support each other.”
Even nerves become manageable when you’re part of a team.
“When you get nervous, you can look to each other for backup,” Olivia added.
That sense of connection is what sets synchro apart.
Building the Future: Synchro Skills & Program Growth
With competitive success now part of the story, the LA Edge program continues to grow.
Skaters who are not yet competition-ready can now join what the program calls Synchro Skills — a developmental pathway focused on:
- Learning formations
- Strengthening skating skills
- Understanding timing and musicality
- Preparing for future competitive seasons
Long-term plans include forming an additional feeder team to support rising athletes.
This structure allows skaters to enter the program at multiple levels while keeping competition teams strong and focused.
Join LA Edge: Spring Session Begins April 12
The next opportunity to join LA Edge Synchro begins with the:
Spring Session: April 12 – June 14
The program is open to skaters in Pre-FreeSkate through Free Skate 4 and above (placement dependent on skill level).
Synchro is ideal for skaters who:
- Thrive in team environments
- Want to build stronger skating fundamentals
- Enjoy performing
- Are looking for the next challenge
- Want to gain competitive experience
Whether your skater is brand new to team skating or looking to take their skating to the next level, LA Edge offers a pathway.
Synchronized Skating in Los Angeles — Right Here in Harbor City
For families searching for:
- Youth synchronized skating in Los Angeles
- Synchro teams in the South Bay
- Figure skating team opportunities in Harbor City
- Competitive synchro skating programs near me
LA Edge at Skating Edge Ice Arena is building something special.
From first performance to first place — this is just the beginning.
Ready to Join LA Edge?
The Spring Session runs April 12 – June 14.
Spots are limited as the program continues to grow.
