The Bellevedettes competed and placed at many events this season, even traveling to Orlando, Florida to compete and place at nationals.

“This season we were most looking forward to growing as a team, becoming stronger dancers, and competing at the state and national level,” dance coach Kristin Wheeler said.

The team started off the season placing second at the Centura Dance Invite. After that competition, the team spent much of their practice time continuing to perfect their basketball game half-time routine and also prepare for nationals.

“This competition season compares to past seasons because it is growing. We are excited to keep moving forward with this momentum,” Wheeler said.

Only six of the team members ending up traveling to Orlando for Dance Team Union Nationals. The team placed 13th overall while senior dance team captain Cameron Krishna competed as a soloist and placed ninth in the nation.

“It felt amazing being able to place as well as we did. Not many teams come out in the top 15 at their first ever nationals,” Krishna said.

At nationals, the team had to perform twice – once to make semifinals and then once in semifinals competition. It was in the semifinals competition that the Bellevedettes preformed and took the thirteenth spot.

“My favorite part of nationals was making it to semifinals because as soon as it happened we all kicked in to gear and was more focused than we ever have. It just made it proud as a captain to see my teammates work so hard,” Krishna said.

On Feb. 15 the dance team traveled to Grand Island to compete in the state competition. While there, the team spent a lot of time supporting the eight other teams before they eventually went on to place seventh.

“[I enjoy] getting to know more about people I never thought I would and being able to build a bond that will last a while. It’s been very challenging but also very fun,” junior and dance team member Caitlyn George said.

Competition season offers many opportunities for growth for the individual members and the team as a whole. All the time spent practicing is finally able to be shown at competitions.

“The best part of the competition season is coming together as a team and working hard to accomplish our goals. It is awesome to see all of their hard work pay off when they have a stellar performance and outcome,” Wheeler said.