Senior Student Awarded Gold by U.S. Figure Skating


Senior Emmy Francek was awarded the Gold Level Graduating Seniors Award by U.S. Figure Skating.

According to U.S. Figuring Skating, the Graduating Seniors Program recognizes those student-athletes who have worked hard to pursue figure skating while maintaining their academics. While figure skating is not a traditional school sport, it requires the same dedication, perseverance, and time management as any varsity sport. The organization awards student-athletes in four categories – Platinum, Gold, Silver, or Bronze level – based on their highest competition and test achievements in all disciplines of figure skating. This year, awards are being presented to over 600 student-athletes.

“I was so incredibly honored to be awarded the Gold Level Award because it is a culmination of 14 years of hard work,” Emmy said. “I have put so much effort, time, and love into figure skating that it is so exciting to be recognized. The sport has done so much for me and my personal development that the award is just the cherry on top!”

She continued, “The application process was relatively simple: after being nominated by the Pittsburgh Figure Skating Club, I had to fill out an application in which I discussed my figure skating accomplishments and any skating plans I had for the future. After that, I just had to wait! The results came in an email, and I was utterly shocked to find that not only was I a recipient of the award, but I had also received the Gold Level! My family and I happy danced in the kitchen together after reading the good news.”

In addition to the congratulatory letter, Emmy received an awards certificate and lapel pin.

This isn’t the end of the ice for Emmy. She plans to keep her blades sharp by continuing the sport at the University of Oklahoma (OU) in the fall, even though the university doesn’t currently have a skating team. “A friend of mine from my old skating team, who is also attending OU, and I have already begun the process of starting a competitive team,” she said. “Ideally, I will both compete and choreograph once I get my coaching license. No matter what, I intend to maintain my commitment and passion towards the figure skating community.”

Congratulations, Emmy!

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