Northland Blades
Synchronized Skating
About Us
Founded in 2025 by Megan Zimmerman, the Northland Blades was built on a passion for synchronized skating and a vision to grow the sport throughout the Northland. Beginning with an Open Adult team, the program creates opportunities for adult skaters to stay active in the sport, build meaningful connections, and share their love of skating as part of a team.
As we look ahead to the 2026–2027 competitive season, we’re excited to grow our program by welcoming three youth teams in Virginia, MN, while continuing to support our adult team in Duluth, MN. With these new opportunities, the Northland Blades is committed to growing synchronized skating in our region and creating a welcoming, supportive environment where skaters can develop their skills, challenge themselves, and experience the excitement of competing as a team.
What is Synchronized skating?
Synchronized skating offers athletes the chance to compete with a team and learn the value of teamwork and camaraderie. Formed in 1956 by Dr. Richard Porter, the sport was known as “precision skating” for the intricate moves skaters perform on the ice together. U.S. Figure Skating held the first U.S. Synchronized Skating Championships in 1984 and the first World Synchronized Skating Championships in 2000. Today, there are about 600 registered synchronized teams in the United States.
Teams of eight to 20 skaters perform challenging formations and step sequences together, and competitions use the same judging system as singles, pairs and ice dance. As with other disciplines, all teams perform a free skate with required elements, and junior- and senior-level teams also perform a short program.
2026-2027 Team Levels
Aspire
Our Aspire team is the perfect introduction to synchronized skating. Practicing twice a week at Iron Trail Motors Event Center in Virginia, MN, our Aspire team will have a focus on learning the fundamentals of synchro as well as enhancing the skaters individual skills.
Skaters must be 13 years and younger. Based on USFS guidelines, skaters are encouraged to have a skill level at or below the Pre-Bronze test level.
The team will participate in exhibitions and compete in two competitions throughout the season to gain competition exposure and experience.
2026-2027 Competition Schedule
December 18th-19th- Maplewood Classic - Minneapolis, MN
January 9th-10th - Northern Star International Competition - East Grand Forks, MN
Open Juvenile
The goal of the Open Juvenile team is to continue developing skaters’ technical and performance skills. The team will practice twice a week at Iron Trail Motors Event Center in Virginia, MN, focusing on advancing skating skills, learning challenging synchronized elements, and building strong teamwork.
Open Juvenile is open to skaters ages 19 and younger, with no test requirements.
Throughout the season, athletes will have the opportunity to showcase their skills through exhibitions and competitions, gaining valuable experience and continuing to grow within the sport of synchronized skating.
2026-2027 Competition Schedule
December 18th-19th- Maplewood Classic - Minneapolis, MN
January 9th-10th - Northern Star International Competition - East Grand Forks, MN
Open Adult
Open Adult is a synchronized skating division for skaters ages 18 and older, with no upper age limit. While there are no testing requirements, skaters should have a strong foundation in basic skating skills, including stroking, forward and backward crossovers, three-turns, and mohawks.
Whether you have previous synchronized skating experience or are looking to return to the ice and be part of a team environment, Open Adult provides a welcoming opportunity to continue developing your skills, build connections, and enjoy the sport of synchronized skating.
The team practices once a week at various rinks throughout the Twin Ports area, including Wessman Arena and Aspirus St. Luke’s Sports & Event Center. The team will also compete at two competitions during the season, providing skaters the opportunity to perform, challenge themselves, and experience the excitement of competing.
2026-2027 Competition Schedule
December 18th-19th- Maplewood Classic - Minneapolis, MN
January 16th-17th - Synchro Illinois - Evanston, IL
Why should you do synchro?
At Northland Blades, we believe synchronized skating is about more than just learning skills on the ice, it's about building friendships, working together, and growing as both skaters and individuals. Our program encourages teamwork, confidence, responsibility, and commitment while creating a fun and supportive environment where every skater can succeed.
What’s the Time Commitment?
Our season runs from August through April, with one to two practices per week depending on team level. Each season, we travel to two to three competitions throughout the Midwest, giving skaters the chance to perform, make new friends, and experience the excitement of competing as a team.
Meet our Synchro Coaches!
MEGAN ZIMMERMAN
Founder & Co-Coach
Duluth, MN
KRISTI WESTERBUR
Co-Coach
Virginia, MN
KATHERINE BURKE
Co-Coach
Duluth, MN
JILL MCLEAN
Co-Coach
Virginia, MN
ABIGAIL HEJDA
Co-Coach
Virginia, MN
CONNECT WITH THE NORTHLAND BLADES:
Interested in Joining?
For team inquiries, please reach out to synchro@scdunord.org. We’d love to add you to our interest list so you can receive updates and more information about our upcoming Spring Open House and Tryouts!