Get to know the McMaster figure skating team

Photos from Silhouette Photo Archives

This weekend, the McMaster figure skating team hosted their first meet in several years. The team, led by one of Mac’s captains Emma Bonafiglia, came in fourth place overall. Ontario University Athletics gold medalist Belvina Mao came in first once again for the Senior Silver Solo Dance category.

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We caught up with the two Marauders below:

The Silhouette: What year and program are you in?

Belvina: Third year, kinesiology.

Emma: Fourth year, kinesiology.

Tell us, what made you decide to come to Mac?

B: My main reason was for the kinesiology program because it’s one of the best in the country. I was also really attracted to the fact that everyone who came to Mac loved the community feel it had.

E: I originally decided to come to Mac to join the [synchronized swim] team in my first year. I also chose Mac because it is close to home and I heard about its reputable Kin program.  

Tell us a bit about the McMaster Invitational.

E: It’s a lot of work to host a tournament, but this year myself and the other captains wanted to host one. The process was a bit challenging, but overall we ended up figuring everything out and it ran smoothly the day of. In terms of skating, we came fourth overall, which is good but it’s still the beginning of the season so we have a lot to work on.

B: It was really nice because alumni, family and friends were able to come out and support [us]. Normally, they’re not able to because competitions are so far. So to be able to perform in front of them was really nice. Even though there was pressure being on home ice, it felt more like a showcase than an actual competition.

As the defending OUA Senior Silver Solo Dance gold medalist, it’s no surprise you came in first in the same category this weekend. Tell us a little about that.

B: The person who was behind me was a little close for comfort, but I was still able to skate to the best of my abilities so I was really proud of myself.

If you had to tell us one thing about yourself that people don’t know what would it be?

B: I am part of the McMaster Musical Theatre and it’s really fun to be part of something outside of school and skating. (MMT upcoming show “Company” is Feb. 22)

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E: I don’t like chocolate, but my go-to sweet treat is anything sour.

Lastly, what are your goals for this season?

B: I am hoping to defend my title as OUA champion for the Senior Silver Dance and to continue to just skate the best that I can.

E: For the team, our goal is to come top three at the OUA championships in February, and for myself, I hope to come first in my solo dance event.

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Next up, the McMaster Figure Skating team will head to the University of Toronto to take the ice.

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