Teams Elite’s World Gold a ‘Dream Come True’
In a historic win for U.S. Figure Skating, Teams Elite captured the nation’s first-ever World gold medal in synchronized skating at the 2025 ISU World Junior Synchronized Championships held in Gothenburg, Sweden. This monumental achievement alongside Skyliners Junior’s bronze medal marks a pivotal moment for synchronized skating in the U.S., establishing the country as a powerhouse on the global stage.
Facing fierce competition, Teams Elite, based in Northbrook, Illinois, executed a breathtaking free program to music from the film Black Swan. Entering the final segment in third place, the skaters soared to the top, accumulating a memorable total of 205.28 points. Head coach Danielle Ostrower expressed sheer disbelief upon realizing they had clinched the title. “My throat closed up, and I just burst into tears,” she shared, reminiscing about the unforgettable moment the team knew they were number one.
Teams Elite’s achievement resonates throughout the skating community. Emma Chung, a skater on the team, remarked, “It is a dream come true. We worked hard for this opportunity.” Their triumph was complemented by a strong performance from Skyliners, who had a total score of 201.27, reinforcing their status as a formidable junior team celebrated every year since 2018.
Coach Josh Babb lauded his Skyliners squad for their resilience throughout the competitive season, emphasizing the honor of medaling. Caitlin Chae echoed this sentiment, highlighting their rigorous efforts to reach this moment of success.
The celebration didn’t stop at the competition. On returning to Illinois, teams Elite received a rousing welcome with a water salute from the Chicago Fire Department, symbolizing their historic accomplishment.
This remarkable success showcases the steady rise of U.S. synchronized skating, creating a new narrative against traditional powerhouses like Finland and Canada. Ostrower highlights, “This win is a statement that our sport is growing and evolving.” With this victory, the U.S. synchronizes its path towards a promising future among elite international contenders.
Looking ahead, teams Elite and Skyliners are focused on continued growth. As Ostrower notes, “Winning a title is incredible, but staying at the top requires our absolute best.” This landmark victory isn’t just a milestone; it’s the dawn of a new era for U.S. synchronized skating.
