By Grace Malec, Sports Editor
The AQ Dance Team Hosts the 2024 WHAC Regionals Event – Photo by Grace Malec
After setting a new program record with a 92.47 at Regionals, the Aquinas College Dance Team is basking in the spotlight like never before with their 2025 season approaching.
This past month, the team announced a coaching change, with the introduction of Katherine Impellizzeri who will be taking the role of assistant coach for the team. This season’s team also features a wide variety of talent, signing three freshmen both over the summer and during the off season including Lilly DeWinter, Brooklyn Kozminski and Grace Steketee.
As the Freshmen gear up for their first season of competition, they are eager to dive into the world of NAIA dance and play a key role in leading their team to victory this year. “I have loved being on the team so far and making friends with so many new people,” said Kozminski. “I am so excited to be able to travel as a team and am looking forward to all of our upcoming opportunities.”
Head Coach Ashley Kaman is looking forward to a bright season for the team. “Kicking off competition season for AQ Dance is such an exciting time,” said Kaman. “Our game day performances thus far have been incredible and so much fun. We are now cracking down to prepare for the next level that competition season brings.”
With the new season approaching, the team is slated to unveil an exciting new routine, complete with fresh costumes and impressive skills.
After beginning their college dance careers on a record-setting high, the sophomores on the team are ready to break even more records. Olivia White, a sophomore member of the team is ready to start the season strong and assist in leading the team to even higher levels this season. “I’m really excited for this year’s routine. I love the choreography, some of it is so new I would have never thought I could try something like it,” said White.
Team members emphasize the importance of collaboration. Whether they are performing on the sidelines, during halftime at games or taking the floor for competitions, their ability to work together is what allows them to reach their maximum potential. In regards to the routine this season and how they work together,“There are some fun moments where as a team we can collaborate on the routine to figure out what blends and help coach if she needs,” said White. This ability to work together efficiently and effectively has been the main driving force behind the team’s success.
Upperclassmen are prepared to lead the team this year. With only three juniors, three seniors, and one graduating senior, the upperclassmen are ready to lead a young team to a bright season. “We are lucky to have deep talent in every class, led by a stacked group of seniors who have all been on the competition floor for three seasons leading into this year,” said Kaman.
Growth is the focus for the team. They are looking to grow not only as a team, but as individuals this season and have been putting in the work to ensure that happens.“I am anticipating a season full of growth physically, mentally and emotionally not only as dancers, but as a team and as individual women,” said junior Alana Calhoun
With the dance team’s season now in full swing, they are working hard in order that they are prepared for the transition from game day performances to competition season. “We have elevated our routine technically, and are looking forward to showcasing our hard work. Being five time conference champions adds pressure to continue our reign, but the team is ready for that challenge and it motivates us every day,” said Kaman.
The team’s season is slated to start early in the second semester. Although they have not released their schedule yet, the team is continuing to work hard as they prepare for their season debut. With ending the 2023-2024 season on a high note, the team is in search of raising the bar even higher and reaching their maximum potential.
The Saint 