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Madison Borsellino anxiously awaited her turn to take the ice Saturday at Darien Ice Rink in the Southern Connecticut Open. The 10-year-old Stamford girl felt a little more comfortable because her sister, Sydney, had skated in the competition Friday.
"I saw her do it, so I know that I can do it, too',' said Madison, who skated in the Preliminary Girls division. "Watching her do it gives me confidence."
Madison and Sydney are triplets who attend Greenwich Catholic School with their sister, Alexandra. Madison and Sydney skate for the event host, the Skating Club of Southern Connecticut. Madison is coached by Norwalk's Rose Nanista. "This is one of the biggest events of the year,'' Madison said. "I'm excited, and nervous, especially about my last jump. I've been practicing it a lot."
The Borsellino girls have been skating at Terry Conners Rink in Stamford for the past five years. They started in group lessons and recently transitioned to private lessons. "I like everything about it,'' Madison said.
She was one of nearly 300 skaters scheduled to glide this weekend. The competition began Friday and concludes Sunday. The meet is the state's largest, and attracts skaters from all over the Northeast. Skaters of all age levels and ability are participating, from no test (beginner) to senior level. Sunday's events feature many adult competitions.
The Southern Connecticut Open is sanctioned by U.S. Figure Skating Association and is run by parent volunteers and skaters. Nearly 40 judges and officials came to the event to critique the skaters. The judges and officials, many sectional and national judges, travel from all over the country to participate. The Skating Club of Southern Connecticut was established in 1941. Many of its skaters train at Terry Conners Rink and Darien Ice Rink.
Madison was nervous as her turn came to skate. But she brushed aside the nerves to deliver a beautiful routine and a crisp landing on the final jump that she was so concerned about. She received a big hug from coach Nanista as she left the ice, and smiled broadly after a delightful and clean performance.
Have you seen the skaters at the Southern Connecticut Open? What are your thoughts? Start the discussion below!
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