The United States Olympic Education Center speedskating team will send 11 athletes to the 2011 American Cup Final March 11-13 in Wausau, Wis.

Northern Michigan University junior Erin Bartlett (Lakewood, Ohio) enters the finals tied for first in the female rankings with a total of 94 qualifying points.  Bartlett clinched her first-place position at the American Cup III after finishing first in the 1500-meter and 500-meter events, and second in the 1000-meter and 1500-meter super final.

“It would be nice to get a strong finish to end the year,” said Bartlett. “We have picked up the training and I am anxious to see the results.”

Sophomore Kimberly Derrick (Grand Rapids, Mich.) is ranked fourth overall with a total of 85 qualifying points.  Derrick won the 1500-meter event and placed third in the 1000-meter at the American Cup II.

Other women competing are senior Tamara Frederick (Park Ridge, Ill.), junior Kelsey Schiel (Midland, Mich.), and freshmen Sarah Burg (Alpena, Mich.) and Alaina Fiorenza (Wausau, Wisc.).

Senior Levi Kirkpatrick (Hills, Iowa) earned the top spot in the men’s division with a point total of 94.  Kirkpatrick placed first in the 1000-meter and second in both the 1500-meter and 1500-m super final at the American Cup II.

“I need to continue my high level of intensity. As long as I can skate like myself and do my best, if I can do that, the results will fall into place,” said Kirkpatrick. “The team and I are looking to end the season on a good note.”

Sophomore Chris Creveling (Kintersville, Pa.) placed first in the American Cup II 1500-m and 1500-m super final, while finishing third in the 1000-m.  He is ranked fourth in the American Cup standings.

Juniors Daniel Fiorenza (Wausau, Wisc.) and Barry Winslow (Midland, Mich.) and freshman Kyle Haun (Milwaukee, Wisc.) will also compete.

— NMU Sports Information