The Stevenson University dance team is already looking forward to the Fall. The team held tryouts in April for any current students hoping interested in dance and will be able to attend the team’s over the summer.

There are two dance squads – game day and competitive. Those on the game day squad will participate in the sideline and halftime routines during the football games. Making the game day squad does not guarantee students a spot on the competition team; competition squad tryouts are held in September.

The team has competed in the Universal Dance Association’s Collegiate National Competition since 2011. Participating in this contest gives the Mustangs’ a chance to see what the competition is like around the country. In 2014, the team earned a spot in the finals, dancing to their hip-hop routine “Touchdown Baltimore.” This was a significant accomplishment for the team, who beat seven other Division III schools to make it to the finals.

The team traveled to Daytona, Fl., this year and also showcased their talents at the “Reach the Beach” competition in Ocean City, Md. Dancer Jordan Browning said that the national competition was the most enjoyable for her.

“We have never been to the NDA competition; we usually go to UDA in Orlando,” she said. “The competition was different than what we were used to because it was smaller, but I think we all had fun and are excited to see what we can do next season.”

Browning added, “This season was a learning experience for both the team and the new coaches who were brought in. Personally, it is always difficult to get used to new coaches, and I think all of us could have prepared differently to make this season a better season.” She said that the team hopes to improve for next season, getting stronger and better for a more cohesive unit.