A Dauphin County teen's dream has come true. He's skating his way into a bright future.
Conor Wagar, of Derry Township, has been skating for eight years. He started when he was 10; a late bloomer in the ice skating world, but still a naturally talented "tween," according to coach Doris Papenfuss. She knew he was centered.
"I could see he had something because he already right away had the love of skating and the understanding of it," Papenfuss said. "He already knew right away what he wanted to accomplish and he had such a good work ethic."
Wagar still does. The 18-year-old practices at Twin Ponds East in Susquehanna Township Monday through Friday; some days skating in the morning and afternoon. Each session lasts two to three hours.
"I really worked hard to get where I am today," Wagar said, "just hard work and effort put into it you can get anywhere you want."
All that discipline is paying off. Wagar's career is about to take flight.
"I'm going to be an ensemble skater for Disney on Ice," he said. "I have no clue which part I am right now, but I'm just really excited just to be on the tour. It's such a great honor."
Wagar's fancy footwork will be seen by thousands as he tours the country. He was chosen after he applied online and sent a video to Disney On Ice. The touring group invited him to audition when it came to the Giant Center in Hershey. After the show was over, the audition began.
Papenfuss described the process.
"They have line captains that come out and they have particular sequences of the show that they want them to try to learn," she said. "You have to follow a line captain and they do the steps a few times and then repeat it."
About three weeks later: good news. Disney wanted Wagar. The bad news: Papenfuss could not go, too. But the pair will rely on cell phones and Skype to keep in touch.
"I'm heartbroken that he's leaving, but I'm just so, so proud," Papenfuss said.
Wagar arrived in Florida to begin practice sessions for his new job and is excited to see what the future holds for him.
"There are no words to describe it," he said. "I'm just so happy to be in the tour and just so honored to be a part of the Disney family."
