Terrible news for the United States ice dancing team of Emily Samuelson and Evan Bates: Samuelson's blade snagged Bates's achilles heel in practice last week and the injury is forcing the team to withdraw from the Grand Prix series, according to Icenetwork. Bates required surgery to repair the tendon. He will need to undergo physical therapy.
It is unclear whether the two will compete at Nationals or at all this season. Best wishes to a full and quick recovery for Bates.