SUA Dance Team Places in Top 3 at Nationals
SUADT celebrating their successful weekend. Photo courtesy of Mrs. Losby of SUA.
By Caitlin Kujawski
February 10, 2025
TOLEDO, OH. - Saint Ursula Academy’s dance team had a successful time in Orlando at the UDA Nationals dance competition. They placed second in the nation in jazz and third in the nation in pom.
For Hailey Kindl ’27 the experience was like no other.
“It’s a really special moment not to be taken for granted,” said Kindl. “Performing there was just a crazy experience.”
Performing at UDA Nationals takes a lot of mental and physical preparation.
“Before we go out, we get in a team huddle and remind each other of all the positive things (we’ve been through),” said Kindl.
Kindl also says a prayer, shakes everything off, stretches and takes deep breaths.
SUADT mentally preparing to perform. Photo courtesy of Mrs. Losby of SUA.
One item others might not know about Saint Ursula Academy’s Dance Team is how much work goes into making it this far. Many team members have been dancing since early elementary school and have logged hundreds of practice hours.
With all of the hard work, practice, and preparations, challenges come with it all too.
“Getting over mental blocks to do certain skills can be tough,” said Kindl. “Hitting every section and staying consistent with cleaning moves up, timing and spacing can be hard as well.”
Despite competing in multiple competitions throughout the dance season, the anticipation of hearing the final rankings at the national level is not for the faint of heart.
“It’s definitely scary,” said Kindl when talking about hearing the rankings. “(H)earing our school called is the best sound ever.”
This season was extra special for Kindl because of all the great things they accomplished and the bonds that were made.
“It was great this year because I was a sophomore so I could connect better with the older girls and the new girls, too. The bonds this year were strong.” said Kindl.
“I am definitely going to miss this group a lot,” said Kindl.
