RedHawks support Olympic ice dreams in Beijing
Two Miami Synchronized Skating Team alumnae fuel the U.S. Figure Skating team in the 2022 Winter Olympic Games
RedHawks support Olympic ice dreams in Beijing
RedHawk fans around the globe may spot a familiar face or two rinkside in Beijing’s Capital Indoor Stadium during figure skating coverage. Ingrid Benson ('13) and Dr. Kristin Abbott ('05), alumnae of the Miami Synchronized Skating teams, are currently supporting the U.S. Figure Skating team at the 2022 Winter Olympic Games.
Benson is the senior manager for athlete high performance logistics and is responsible for all administrative support in the years leading into and during the Olympic Games, including travel logistics, athlete entries and music submissions, athlete and staff credentials, among other responsibilities.
“Benson is the anchor of the team and ensures the figure skating team's travel to, and participation in, the Games is as smooth and successful as possible,” Abbott said.
Abbott serves as the team physician for the U.S. Figure Skating delegation including athletes, coaches, and support staff.
“This year brought additional challenges with extensive COVID protocols that we had to navigate,” said Abbott, who has served as chair of the Sport Science and Medicine Committee since 2018. “We are so thrilled to have made the healthy arrival in Beijing and be here to support our team.”
Benson and Abbott are just two of many synchronized skating alumnae who have continued their active involvement in the sport by supporting athletes, teams, and programs through U.S. Figure Skating. The program has established a legacy within the sport of figure skating, according to Abbott. She is one of seven U.S. Figure Skating staffers. Her fellow alumnae also serve as officials, coaches, and competitive athletes in the sport.