Missing a week of school was definitely worth it for the Dance Team. While in Florida, they claimed their fourth consecutive national title.

With a new theme this year, the dance team still pulled through to win the NDA National Championship title. Instead of their usual horror theme, they went with a more unique, shocking performance. Their performance was the complete opposite from scary, it was humorous but still the same level of intensity and skill.  We all saw the dance team perform this theme at the Black History month assembly and it was definitely out of the ordinary for them. They tried something new and it paid off.

“Last year it was more a dark and different style, but this year we tried different styles and genres,” said senior captain Madeline Diez.

After working on perfecting this new routine throughout the year, it all came down to their performance at nationals. While we were at home enjoying our snow day, they were on a plane down to warm, sunny Florida.

“This was my first year and I was so excited and I didn’t know what to expect. We have worked hard and are really dedicated,” said sophomore Madison Coday.

The days leading up to the competition were filled with practice, practice, and more practice. When they stepped onto the stage, they danced their hearts out and left everything on the stage.

“Performing was nerve racking, but exciting because I have never done it before,” said freshman Taylor Larson.

When the winner was finally announced, the dance team was filled with joy and couldn’t believe they did it again for the fourth consecutive year.

“We had no idea we were going to win but we have been working hard all year and would’ve been happy with any place. I walked off the stage and I couldn’t believe we did it,” said Larson.

The dance team describes their bond like a family. It definitely takes a close knit “family” to win nationals four years in a row. The dance team proved they can dance their way to 1^st place no matter what style, music, or genre.

“I’m so proud of everyone on the team. We all worked really hard and I still get chills thinking about it,” said Diez.

After winning nationals, the dance team got to spend the rest of the week enjoying the Florida weather. Having to leave was difficult for everyone but at least they get to come back to WS with another national title. As their season comes to an end, dance team members are mostly sad.

“I’m going to miss everyone and it’s going to be weird not bringing my bag to school,” said Coday.