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WNIJ's summary of news items around our state.

National Ice Skating Competition Is Coming To Rockford

ussynchrochampionships.com

The U.S. Synchronized Skating Championship is taking place at the BMO Harris Bank Center for the first time.

The annual competition has traveled to different cities, like San Diego and Boston, since 1984. 

People ages nine through 65 choreograph synchronized team skating routines, which include complex formations and step sequences.

Winners from the senior-experience-level go on to represent the U.S. in a worldwide competition.

Andrea Mandala is with the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

“You know, you think about doing that on the ground," she says. "But then when you have to put on skates and do it on the ice – just to maneuver. And again, to point out the fact that it’s synchronized, there is a level there of performance where you have to be in sync with your teammates. And to do that gracefully is so impressive.”

Mandala says the event is expected to generate more than $630,000 in tourism dollars.

“They’re going to be coming into the region," she says. "Of course they’re going to be focused on the tournament at the BMO Harris Bank Center. But then they will want to explore the region, find all the special gems and all that we have to offer."

The competition is Thursday through Saturday, and is open to the public.