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NDSU Dance Teams Headed to National Championships

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, January 5th 2026 at 2:12 GMT by inforum
      Locale: North Dakota, UNITED STATES

From Fargo Fields to Nationals: The NDSU Dance Teams Chase Their Dream on Stage

The North Dakota State University (NDSU) Dance Teams – encompassing both the varsity jazz team and the spirit squad dance team – are embarking on a significant journey, one culminating in the prestigious National Dance Alliance (NDA) College Nationals. As detailed in an InForum article by Mike Jackowski, this year’s competition holds particular significance for the teams, representing years of dedication, evolving leadership, and overcoming challenges both on and off the performance floor. The story isn't just about routines; it's a testament to the commitment of student-athletes striving for excellence in a niche but fiercely competitive world.

The NDA College Nationals, often referred to as the "Super Bowl" of collegiate dance, is an annual event attracting teams from across the United States. It’s a high-stakes environment judged on technical skill, choreography, showmanship, and overall impression. The InForum article highlights that making it to nationals isn't automatic; teams must qualify through regional competitions. NDSU's teams successfully navigated this hurdle, earning their spot among the nation’s elite.

A Legacy of Growth & Changing Leadership:

The NDSU Dance Teams have a history spanning several decades. Initially, they were primarily focused on supporting Bison athletics, performing at football games and other events. However, over time, a desire for greater recognition and competitive opportunities grew within the program. The article emphasizes that their current level of success is built upon the foundation laid by previous teams and coaches. The transition from being solely a spirit squad to a more fully realized dance team with distinct performance goals has been gradual but deliberate.

This year’s journey is particularly notable due to a significant shift in leadership. Longtime coach, Jessica Anderson, stepped down after 14 years, leaving behind a legacy of growth and numerous national qualifications. Taking the reins are co-head coaches Sarah Wetsch and Alyssa Olson (as detailed further in this Bison Report article). This transition presented its own set of challenges, requiring the team to adapt to new coaching styles and expectations. The InForum piece underscores that Wetsch and Olson’s approach focuses on a blend of tradition and innovation, honoring the program's history while pushing boundaries creatively. They are emphasizing individual skill development alongside cohesive team performance – crucial for success at Nationals.

The Routines & The Work:

The article delves into the intricacies of preparing for nationals. The jazz team’s routine is described as a contemporary piece blending elements of hip-hop and lyrical dance, showcasing technical proficiency and emotional expression. The spirit squad's routine, while still incorporating traditional cheerleading aspects, has evolved to emphasize more complex choreography and performance quality. Both teams spend countless hours rehearsing – often 10+ hours per week during the season, including early mornings and evenings - honing their skills and perfecting every detail. The dedication extends beyond just learning steps; it involves strength training, conditioning, nutrition planning, and mental preparation.

The InForum article highlights that choreography is a collaborative process involving coaches, team members, and sometimes guest choreographers. Finding the right music, developing a compelling narrative, and ensuring the routine reflects the team’s identity are all critical components of their preparations. The teams also face financial challenges; travel to competitions, costumes, and other expenses require fundraising efforts from the dancers and support from NDSU Athletics.

Competition & Pressure:

The NDA College Nationals are notoriously competitive. Teams representing larger universities with more extensive dance programs often dominate the field. NDSU’s teams, hailing from a smaller university in North Dakota, face an uphill battle against these well-resourced rivals. The pressure to perform flawlessly under intense scrutiny is immense. The article emphasizes that while winning is always a goal, the focus remains on representing NDSU with pride and showcasing their hard work and dedication.

The spirit squad, according to this Bison Report article, has seen significant improvement in recent years, consistently placing higher at regional competitions. This upward trend fuels their confidence heading into nationals, but they understand that anything can happen on competition day. The jazz team also aims for a strong showing, striving to improve upon previous performances and demonstrate the evolution of the program.

More Than Just Dance:

Beyond the technical skills and competitive aspirations, the NDSU Dance Teams provide a valuable sense of community for their members. The article emphasizes the friendships forged through shared experiences – the grueling practices, the travel, the triumphs, and even the setbacks. The dancers describe a supportive environment where they push each other to improve while offering encouragement and camaraderie. For many, being part of the team is an integral part of their college experience, shaping not only their dance skills but also their leadership abilities, teamwork skills, and personal growth.

Ultimately, the NDSU Dance Teams’ journey to NDA College Nationals embodies the spirit of collegiate athletics – dedication, perseverance, and a passion for excellence. Whether they stand atop the podium or simply showcase their talent on stage, their commitment to representing North Dakota State University with pride is undeniable. Their story serves as an inspiration to student-athletes everywhere who chase their dreams, one step at a time.

I hope this article effectively summarizes and expands upon the content of the original InForum piece! Let me know if you'd like any adjustments or further elaboration on specific aspects.