-
Front row (left to right): Dana Baker, Jen Baxa. Back row: Jenny Schwenker, Brianna Reed, Kate Ricke, Kirsten Carstarphen, Jenna Yates, Nikole Moeller, Kathy Manternach, Megan Sloss, Katie Tokle, Jill Johnson
The Central College dance team was twice recognized as a place winner at its first national competition appearance March 24 at the University of North Texas. Central’s squad was third in the hip-hop routine and took first runner-up honors in the pom routine at the Dance/Drill Team American Collegiate Championship.
“We were totally shocked,” said coach Cindy Wilson. “We went down there just trying to have fun. It took the pressure off, and we really nailed it. It was our best performance of the year.”
The competition boasted teams from 15 colleges nationwide facing off in multiple routines. Schools were grouped according to size and routines were judged on choreography, technique, showmanship and appearance.
The national finish reaffirms Central’s place as a standout dance squad. The team has earned top places among Division III contestants in multiple routines at the Iowa State Drill Team Association’s state competition each of the last four years.
“I’m very proud of the 2011-12 team,” said Wilson. “It was a great accomplishment for them and a wonderful exposure for Central College.”
The Central dance team is an auditioned squad and practices Monday-Thursday throughout the academic year, dancing at multiple performances and competitions annually.