On February 1, 2026, Spalding’s Varsity dance team made an unforgettable mark after competing in the Universal Dance Association National Dance Team Championships in Orlando, Florida. This success was fueled by the motivation from the previous year, when they reached the finals for the first time in years! Not only did they make it to the finals, but they did so for 2 of the 3 dances they performed. This success pushed them to aim even higher this year as they returned more determined than ever. After months of dedication and hard work, they advanced to the finals for all 3 of the dances they performed! They earned their first-ever 1st place National Championship, making program history. They also received 3rd in Hip-Hop and 4th in Jazz, which is such a big accomplishment for them.
Behind the scenes, this success was the result of countless hours of practice. During school breaks and holidays, when many people were most likely relaxing, this team was in the studio from 9 am – 5 pm every day. Practices were filled with physically demanding conditioning and nonstop repetition that pushed this team to its limits. At the same time, the dancers were constantly learning new choreography that often changed, requiring them to adjust and memorize it and its formations quickly. This team pushed themselves to stay in sync and focus on small details so they could perform together as a unit. Every practice required focus, resilience, and open-mindedness so that dancers could prepare for their performance on the nationals mat.
What truly sets this team apart is the environment they have created for support and growth. This team has created a sisterhood where they support one another on and off the dance floor, celebrating successes and helping one another through tough challenges, creating a positive space where everyone can grow as dancers, teammates, and humans. Their success at the Universal Dance Association National Dance Team Championships reflects more than just talent; it shows the power of teamwork, perseverance, and support.
