Aaaah, fall… it’s here.  Time for falling leaves, Halloween, unpredictable weather, Falcon Football and YES, another year of SMOKIN Dance Team performances.  The ladies have been hard at work all summer getting the “newies” up to speed, winning awards at camp and began practice for their fall and state routines.  Once school started, the ladies switched to their nightly practices, four days a week and twice weekly weightlifting in preparation for their pep assembly and football performances and state competition.  Did you know that many of the dance team members also have other activities they are involved in?  Several team members are in cross country, volleyball and some are doing the fall musical.  I am telling you there is no rest for a state champion team.

As I said, the girls have been working really hard to bring you some crowd pleasing routines and they have not disappointed. The team is expected to perform at all home varsity games and any pep assemblies.   So far, crowds have been treated to two dazzling and difficult pom routines, one most recently performed at homecoming last Friday night, set to a mix of Motown music. The team also performed their winning camp routine at the homecoming pep assembly.  Rumor has it, the crowd doesn’t hit the concessions until the half-time performance is completed.  Now, that’s hot!
 
Mini Dance Camp will be held this Sunday, October 1^st from 1-4 p.m. at the high school gym.  Any girl, in grades kindegarten through 8^th grade are invited to attend.  Registration is now $25 and participants will receive a t-shirt and will be invited to perform with the Dance Team at half-time of the varsity game on Friday, October 13^th.  This is an excellent opportunity to find out what DT is like and be part of the half-time show.  Last years camp had over 100 participants and the girls love spending time with the younger dancers.  Any questions, please contact Kathie Guinan at 566-2358.

State Solo competition will be held on Saturday, November 2^nd.  Several team members are beginning to create and perfect their solo performances for the Iowa State competition.  Those members are Nicole Schwartz, Mary Weidman, Molly Rooker, Jordyn Graham, Amanda Burkey and Allison Palmer.  Our alternate soloist is Audrey Weidman.

The UNO Dance Competition will be held on Sunday, November 3^rd and is an excellent way for the team to prepare for team state competition.  Last year, the team did awesome taking home first place jazz and pom, second place hip-hop and overall first place team.  So they are expecting to do it again. 

Well, I think that brings you all up to date on what is going on with the Dance Team.  Coach Kathie and the ladies would like to thank all their fans for your continued support.  Remember, half-time is DT time, cheer loud and proud. Until next time, keep dancing!

Stacy