RAPID CITY — The Huron competitive cheer and competitive dances teams are hoping some hard work throughout the season pays big dividends during the Class AA State Competition, which is slated for 11 a.m. MT today at the Rapid City Stevens gym.
“Our girls have been growing as cheer and dance athletes all season,” Huron coach Megan Smith said. “I believe they are ready to perform their best routines this weekend.
The Huron dance team was fourth overall in last year’s state competition. Sioux Falls Washington earned its fifth-straight title and ninth overall in the dance competition. Brandon Valley was second, followed by Sioux Falls Roosvelt.
The Tigers were 10th in the cheer competition a year ago. Sioux Falls Washington was the AA champion, while O’Gorman was second and Sioux Falls Roosevelt was third.
Huron will be looking to finish in the top half of the 17-team field in both cheer and dance, according the Smith.
“Our goal is to place in the top eight with all our routines,” she said.
Keying the success for Huron this season has been a group of seniors, including Cailey Coss, Jamee Kattner, Leah Pyle, Katelyn Radke and Bessie Willemssen.
“Our seniors have been positive influencers for our team this year,” Smith said. “They lead by example in kindness, hard work and dedication.
“We are so proud of them,” she said. “We will definitely be soaking in our last competition with them.”
