The Minooka varsity dance team did it again, winning the conference for the 8th year in a row. 

On Jan. 12 the girls traveled to Plainfield East to compete in the SPC competition. They quickly took care of business as they took the floor scoring an 88.52.

“This is our biggest accomplishment of the year so far, and we earned it,” junior Zoe Olson said. “We work hard everyday to make sure our routine is clean and we had a chance to show that during the competition.”

This team continued to show their great work ethic, especially the current seniors. They never got a freshman year because of covid, but that didn’t even come close to stopping them and their determination. They showed their leadership everyday and set a great example for the rest of the team.

“This team has been through so much as a unit,” head coach Melissa Wallace said. “My current seniors, especially.  These athletes have fought so hard to get back to doing what they love in a normal capacity, all while handling the mental and emotional struggles of covid. They are THERE for each other.”

The dancers aren’t the only ones who are always there for each other. Both coaches push their athletes to improve each day. They give the dancers someone to look up to and any motivation that might be needed. 

Wallece won coach of the year from the National Federation of State High School Association, and it was well received. She never gives up and shows her love to all her dancers. She keeps a positive attitude everyday and always makes time to have fun with her team.

“Coach pushes us to be the best version of ourselves inside and outside of dance,” sophomore Megan Bell said. “Her work ethic is something to look up to, when she has her mind set on something she makes sure gets it done. She is relatable, kind, and welcoming no matter the situation and is always open to new ideas.” 

Read more about the dance team’s success at the IHSA 3A state finals and their trip to nationals in the next print issue of Nook News, scheduled to be delivered on Feb. 10.