The official ballot for the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame Class of 2012 was announced today, and I’m thrilled to see that Lynn Benson has been included. Lynn formed the Haydenettes in 1979 and remained with the team until the end of the 2004-05 season, when she passed the torch to their current coach, Saga Krantz. In her years with the team, Lynn created a foundation for excellence. The Hayden organization has grown to include teams at multiple levels, and the Haydenettes are now 19-time U.S. Champions and two-time World Bronze Medalists, having represented the U.S. at every World Championship since the first ISU-sanctioned event was held  in 2000 (as well as at each of the World Challenge Cups, held from 1996-99).

It’s wonderful to see this kind of recognition for synchronized skating at such a high level. Lynn’s inclusion on the 2012 ballot places her in good company–she’s been nominated alongside skating legends such as Michelle Kwan, Rudy Galindo, and Lori Nichol.

The full list of nominees is here. The elected Class of 2012 will be announced on December 15, and the induction ceremony will take place at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in January.

Congratulation to Lynn and Hayden Synchronized Skating Teams on the nomination!