Group to compete in Disney World after standout performance at summer dance camp
On the way to Disney! The Middle Township High School Competition Dance Team earned its first-ever bid to the National Dance Team Championships in Orlando, Fla.
Cape May Court House, NJ — The Middle Township High School Competition Dance Team made history by qualifying to compete at Nationals for the first time.
Led by coach Morgan Tridente, the team began its journey with a summer camp on July 28 with the Universal Dance Association under the Varsity Spirit brand. Over the course of three days, the team participated in various activities ranging from team building to dance technique and routine training.
Teams that earned at least two blue ribbons for their performances advanced to the National Dance Team Championships in January at Disney’s Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Fla. The possible scoring included blue ribbon (superior), red ribbon (outstanding), and white ribbon (excellent).
The Middle Township team excelled and won three blue ribbons for its pom, jazz, and hip-hop routines. The achievement was particularly impressive since the dancers had just learned pom, a type of dance that includes high energy and sharp movements with the use of pom-poms. The team “dominated” its final performance, Tridente said.
The dance camp not only led to a spot at Nationals, but also built a stronger team bond. “In just three days, our team began to feel like a family,” Tridente said.
The Middle Township High School Competition Dance Team excelled at a summer camp with the Universal Dance Association under the Varsity Spirit brand. After winning three blue ribbons, the team advanced to a January tournament at Disney’s Wide World of Sports.
To stay motivated before Nationals, the team is focusing on values they defined during camp, such as enthusiasm, teamwork, and focus. They also plan to incorporate a mascot: a panther Build-a-Bear to symbolize their unity as a team. The Middle Township High School mascot is a panther.
“What stood out to me was that they looked like they were having fun,” Tridente said about the camp. “There’s nothing like seeing dancers show off their talents and give it their all on the floor.”
The team will continue to develop skills and incorporate more choreography into classes. The members also will compete in Battle of the Northeast at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pa., in January.
The team has received extensive support from the school and parents. The district’s new superintendent, Stephanie DeRose, stopped by camp to offer words of encouragement. Parents and administrators attended the team’s final performance.
“I love watching dancers from different backgrounds, studios, and training all come together and grow as a team.” Tridente said. “This is just the beginning, and I cannot wait to coach and cheer this group of athletes on as our road to Nationals continues.”