Clear Lake Dance Team brings home a National title

(Above) Members of the Clear Lake High School Dance Team that claimed a DTU National Championship title include front row (L-R):  Kara Ouverson, Jada Nelson, Sarah Petersen, Jadyn Heesch, Mia DeVries, Kaylee Schaefer, Grace Golman, Meredith McKenna.  Back row (L-R): Coach Liz LeFevre, Kylie Harrison, Aubrey Johnstone, Avah Hogg, Mikara Devine, Ariana Tolentino  and Coach Ellie Schultze.  The Lion mascot is Mariposa Coleman.  -Submitted photo

by Michelle Watson

The Clear Lake High School Dance Team brought home some serious hardware after claiming top honors at Dance Team Union (DTU) Nationals held at the Orlando World Center Marriott in Orlando, Fla. last week.  The team, who competed against more than 30 others, became national champions by placing first in Small Spirit Showdown.   

This is the second time the team has competed in DTU Nationals.  The first was in February 2020.  Although this was the first national championship with DTU, previously in program history the team won three national championships while attending DX Americup Nationals.  

This was the first year the team has competed in Spirit Showdown.  The routine showcases a team’s hometown traditions.  Choreographer Michelle Barlas incorporated the school fight song in the mix and a special appearance by the Lion mascot.  Dance elements that the team is currently known for were also included, such as the death drop and hair whips.

“We have a young team and thought this additional routine would be a great opportunity for them to continue growing,” said Coach Liz LeFevre.  “They learned the routine after State competition and it has been a parent favorite.”

Mia DeVries, who serves as a team captain, agreed with LeFevre on the younger girls’ dedication.

“I’m just so proud of this team for the sweat and dedication they put in this season,” she said. “They really stepped up to the challenge.  This National championship is a testament to not only their hard work, but to the lead-

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ership of our coaches and upperclassmen as well.”

The team also placed 12th in Small Varsity Hip Hip and 16th in Small Varsity Pom at DTU Nationals.  Sarah Petersen and DeVries, both team captains, also competed in solo performances.  The first round of competition was virtual.  DeVries, who is the lone senior on the team, was the Class 6 Solo winner.  She was also one of the National solo semi-finalists.

The team worked hard to get to Nationals.  Fundraising efforts began in the summer.  Some of their fundraising events included a prime rib dinner, a father/daughter dance and pictures with the Grinch at Christmas By The Lake events in December.  They also had support from sponsors.

Highlights for the team included traveling together, which is always an amazing learning and bonding opportunity.  Team members also participated in a Game Day Master Class with teachers from Aliva University. They were also able to cheer on five other Iowa teams.  

“The time spent at Nationals will give myself and my teammates memories to last a lifetime. We had competition from large cities like Miami, performing arts schools where dance is part of the curriculum, and even some highly competitive all-star teams. The fact that a team from Clear Lake, Iowa won a National championship is not a coincidence. It’s a testament to who we are as Lions and the parents, coaches, and community that supports us,” added DeVries.

“We are always excited to show them what talent is hiding in small town northern Iowa,” said LeFevre.

The future looks bright for this young team, with over half the members being freshmen and only one of those with competitive dance experience.

“They have had to work much harder than past teams, but with the help of the captains and upperclassmen they have grown faster than we have in 20 years.  It’s been a fun and exciting year and we are looking forward to the future,” said LeFevre.

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