By Carolynn Gonalez

Fourteen girls wearing purple and gold dresses fly across the ice as music from Broadway’s “Aladdin” blares from speakers. The girls’ high velocity causes cold, crisp air to billow around their skirts as adrenaline flows through their veins. Senior Morgan Schroer, who can be found within the mix of girls, is familiar with the rush of competing. As her senior year comes to a close, she not only leaves her high school, but also her team, the Diamond Edges, at the end of the year.

“I’m very upset,” Morgan said. “It’s been a part of my life for so long and it will be weird not seeing my teammates twice a week and over the weekend.”

Synchronized skating is a relatively new sport which includes teams of eight to 24 skaters performing in formations at high speeds. Though Morgan has been with Synchro St. Louis for eight years, she has been part of the Diamond Edges, the most advanced team for four years. Her older sister, Brianna Schroer, had been a part of Synchro St. Louis before her sparking her interest in skating at a young age.

One of Morgan’s favorite aspects of Synchro is the friends she has made and the feeling of being with her teammates. Her teammates and coaches describe her as bubbly, dedicated and cheery.

“Morgan is special because she cares about everyone on the team and is always in a good mood,” teammate Gabi Boone said.

The 2014-2015 season ends in May, signifying the end to Morgan’s synchro experience. Although a chapter of her life is ending, Morgan won’t forget the memories she’s made.

“I have made most of my best friends through synchro, and it’s really added fun to my life,” Morgan said.