Local Athlete Chases Dream to International Roller Skating Stage

Jared Rugen, a 19-year-old Flossmoor native and University of Illinois-Chicago student, is poised to showcase artistic roller skating on the international level September 15–27. Rugen laced up his first pair of competitive roller skates only three years ago and quickly rose to national champion status.

Named an Avery Brundage Scholar (University of Illinois) for outstanding achievement in scholastics and amateur athletics, Rugen balances school and skating with community involvement. He competed at the national USA Roller Sports Championship held in Albuqerque, New Mexico in late July where he received World Qualifying scores in Solo Dance and Team Dance events.

The FIRS World Roller Fiqure Championships will be held in Cali, Columbia where nearly 1500 athletes from 30 countries across 5 continents will show the best of each in the 7 modes of this beautiful discipline. Jared will compete with Emma Trent and represent Team USA in the Senior Team Dance events.

With expectations, desire and expenses all being high, Rugen needs the support of his community as he strives to make USA World Team the leading medal-winning country. The USA does not provide financial assistance to the athletes so each is responsible for all expenses, such as travel, housing, equipment and training fees. If you are interested in helping Jared compete and represent the USA in Columbia, please see his GoFundMe below, or email Jared directly at jaredskate2013@gmail.com.

Live streaming and more information on the Championships can be found on the official website www.artisticocali2015.co.