“Megan has set such a strong example as a leader and she expects that of her skaters,” says Adams. “As a result, the skaters take on roles off the ice to ensure that the team functions well and continues to prosper year over year.”

If longevity is a measure of success, then count the Ice Intrepid Synchronized Skating Team as one solid crew. The University of Manitoba Rec Club celebrates its 20th anniversary this month, accumulating with a performance reuniting two decades worth of alumni on April 6 at U of M’s Wayne Fleming Arena.

Adams is looking forward to the 20 year reunion, and says Ice Intrepid made an impact on her even before she laced up with the club.

“I watched Ice Intrepid skate at nationals when I was in grade 12. The team was very impressive to watch on the ice and they also looked like they were having a ton of fun off the ice,” Adams adds. “I hoped that some day I could join the team.”

“Skating with Ice Intrepid played a big part in my decision to attend U of M.”

Ice Intrepid provides an opportunity for figure skaters to continue their passion for performance in a team environment while studying at the U of M. The club routinely competes in large spectacles across North America and national championship tournaments.

Some alums have been talking about a reunion for a while, says Adams. But perhaps the largest motivation behind it was to honour Maxwell’s contributions to the team.

“Not only is she a dedicated coach but she is a friend and mentor to many past and current skaters. She sets a strong example on and off the ice,” says Adams. “Outside of Ice Intrepid she goes above and beyond for the sport of synchronized skating.”

President of Ice Intrepid (U of M’s synchronized skate club) Avery Albrecht, shares more about the club and why she loves being a part of it.

Why did you decide to become an executive of your club?

I wanted to play a role in the decisions shaping our club. I love the sport of synchronized skating, and when the opportunity to become president presented itself, I took it as a chance to increase awareness of the sport (especially on campus), enhance my teammates’ experience, and push synchro to evolve within the prairie provinces.

What have you learned while being an executive member of your club?

I’ve learned there’s so much more to sport than athletics. The intricacies into making a season successful—from equipment to travel to coaching—has allowed me to grow personally and professionally.

What are some social and/or physical benefits of being in your club?

Ice Intrepid provides skaters with the opportunity to continue to competitively skate with a schedule that is understanding of a university student’s life. I joined Intrepid because it gave me a reason to stay active during university and to meet new people. The friends I’ve made have a similar passion for the sport that’s led to lasting friendships outside the rink.

What are some events/tournaments/achievements you want to highlight?

In January, Ice Intrepid travelled to Brampton, Ont. to compete at Winterfest, and Carberry, Man. for the Manitoba Synchro Championships. At the beginning of February, Intrepid competed in the Prairie Regional Synchronized Skating Championships in Tisdale, Sask. Intrepid placed first with 97.03 points qualifying for nationals in Waterloo, Ont., where they placed ninth overall with a score of 92.62.

Do you think it’s important for students to join a Rec Club?

The social and physical benefits are undeniable. University can become all-encompassing of a student’s life; participating in Rec Clubs is a way to take time away from school to recharge and refocus. Rec Clubs also provides an opportunity for students to take on leadership roles that compliment one’s degree, or act as good experience when applying for jobs. Overall, Rec Clubs can take a student’s university experience to the next level.

Visit uofmactiveliving.ca to learn more about the club including team requirements and how to become a member. Connect with them on social media [@IceIntrepid].