Dance Makes History at NAIA Championships

YPSILANTI, Michigan – The Our Lady of the Lake (OLLU) Competitive Dance team made history this weekend as they competed in the programs first-ever National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) National Championships.

The Saints became the first team from the state of Texas to earn a bid to the Championships. "We have had the honor of representing not only Our Lady of the Lake University and the city of San Antonio, but also the great state of Texas," said head coach Crystal Brock. As the first dance team from Texas to compete in the NAIA Championships, we have created so many unforgettable memories."

The Saints qualified for the National Championships by earning a first-place finish at the NAIA Dance Qualifier hosted by Loyola New Orleans earlier this month. The Saints turned in scores of 71.5 and 71.9 at the qualifier to punch their ticket to Ypsilanti.

In a very competitive and experienced field, the Saints earned an 11th place finish. Head Spirit Coach, Crystal Brock had this to say about her team. "Our dancers performed exceptionally well, executing a highly technical routine that showcased jazz, pom, and hip-hop elements. There were many standout moments throughout the week, both as a team and individually, but at the end of the day, every dancer stepped up and delivered each time we took the floor."

During day one of competition, the Saints earned a score of 68.67 for their routine and improved in the final round of competition with a score of 69.23, bringing their final score to 69.09.

"Overall, there is so much to celebrate as we close our our season ranked 11th in the country for NAIA Dance," continued Brock. "We always talk about "living the legacy" and leaving our mark each season, and this team has undoubtedly done just that. Their impact will be remembered – they are not part of OLLU Dance history as true legends."

Four-year dance team member and captain Madison Smith was chosen as the teams' NAIA Champion of Character. Brock had this to say about Smith, "Madison has grown tremendously as an athlete during her time at OLLU, but more importantly, she has taken on the role of mentor, role model, and leader for bother her teammates and future generations of dancers. As she prepares to graduate this May, we look forward to celebrating all she has accomplished."

For a list of complete results click HERE

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