As the HC Dance team wraps up the fall season and enters the new year, it’s time for them to show their talent and get the well deserved recognition. After already competing in multiple showcases and smaller competitions, they turn their focus to the state and national competitions.The state competition took place January 11th, in which they placed runner up in both the pom and game day categories. As the national competition approaches February 4th, junior Ella Kite and freshmen Kendall Carpenter share how the team is feeling and things they are doing to improve their performances for this competition.
“I’m really excited, I think everyone has been working really hard and we have lots of potential,” Carpenter said. “I’m looking forward to competing with a new group of girls [and we all make sure to keep] a positive mindset.”
This confidence in the team’s ability doesn’t come easily. All the dancers work very hard in practice and outside of practice to improve their skill. As their own technique and skill improves, it allows all talent to come together and compliment each other when it is time for the group performance.
“Most of us take technique classes with our studio teams,” Carpenter said. “Some of us do strength training and we watch videos of our performances and practices to see what we need to work on.”
Another part of the team’s success is the bond they share with each other. Especially the upperclassmen as they lead the team and make sure to create a positive environment so everyone can thrive. This is extremely important for the team because if they don’t get along and have chemistry outside of their dances, it will reflect negatively in their dances. Kite has had to step up into this role as she is now a junior.
“My role has changed on the dance team because I can speak up more and help lead [the team] with the seniors,” Kite said. “We help [the underclassmen] by encouraging them and being really positive for them at the practices and competitions.”
To conclude, the HC Dance team is looking forward to the upcoming national competition and they have a lot of momentum from their performances at state. They are excited to combine their talent and team chemistry and see it pay off. Carpenter and Kite feel that the team is confident, and they have the ability to place well among some of the best High School teams in the country.
