Sumner Academy Teacher Wins Bronze Medal in Team Figure Skating Competition

At Sumner Academy, students and faculty know Rachel Vanderweel as one of the school’s most beloved English and Language Arts teachers.

What they may not know is that she is also a powerhouse on the ice and an award-winning champion in the world of synchronized team figure skating.

Vanderweel, along with her team, The KC Momentum Masters took the bronze medal (3rd place) at the Synchronized Skating Nationals Competition recently held in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

The competition took place from February 26 to March 1 at the Broadmoor World Arena where spectators witnessed 90 of the best synchronized skating teams in the nation compete for gold in eight divisions.

With the big win, the KC Momentum Masters became the first Synchronized Skating National Bronze medalists to represent the Kansas City area.

“I was overjoyed and ecstatic for Ms. Vanderweel and her team on their top finish,” said Sumner Academy Principal Rick Malone. “It is one thing to compete at the national level, but bringing back hardware for your team and city is a great honor.” 

For Vanderweel, this achievement isn’t just about the medal—it’s a testament to years of hard work, sacrifice, and the power of balancing two worlds.

"I was shocked and elated. We knew there was a chance we would place going into the competition, but it would depend on us having our best skate all season with no mistakes," said Vanderweel. "When the results came in, I almost didn't believe it at first. Since then, it has been a wonderful reminder that hard work does pay off."  

The national figure skating competition also served as the final qualifier for the U.S. 2025 World Championship.

We wish Ms. Vanderweel and her team the best of luck as they continue to skate toward even greater achievements.