ELLENTON, Fla. — It’s another practice for Ellenton Epic Edge. Precision, speed and grace are perfected — every move in unison. 

Head Coach Jade Fulton says it takes countless hours.

“The more bodies you’re moving, the more difficult it is,” Fulton explained. “The unison, the timing, the speed. They have definitely thrived off gaining speed this season specifically. They’ve never moved so quickly and I think they’re so proud.”

Their pride reached a new level this season, skating in seven different competitions and recently earning national recognition. The team placed fourth in U.S. Figure Skating’s Eastern Sectionals. 

“For this level, that is their final, that’s their nationals, that’s their qualifying event, that’s their Olympics and so they came fourth in the East Coast,” Fulton said. “And for U.S. figure skating and for synchronized skating, the East Coast is the mecca.”

But before the medals, this team had to build a foundation. Figure skater Lucy Fulton says it’s a process, but a meaningful one.

“It’s hard work to trust one another, but it’s such a fun time meeting new people,” she said.

These moves may look effortless but can have serious consequences if not executed well, with trust being a major factor.

Coach Fulton is a former professional figure skater and founded Ellenton’s synchronized skating program four years ago. 

“I grew up skating in a program in Canada that was thriving so when I first came to Florida and I had this intention of starting a program,” Fulton said.

The program has grown from nine skaters in its first year to four teams with 50 skaters. 

It gives a unique opportunity in a sport that is widely known for its individual competition. 

“The speed, the grace, the beauty of what synchronized skating has brought to maybe the kid that wasn’t going to thrive with a triple axel and it’s kept them in the sport,” Fulton said.

They found their edge and they’re already setting goals for next season. Their friendship makes the success even sweeter.