The Van Buren County Rhythm Squad delivered outstanding performances at the Iowa State Dance Team Association (ISDTA) Championships, earning Division I ratings in both their Pom and Lyrical routines while competing against some of the state’s toughest competition in Des Moines on Thursday, December 4th.
State Results
The Rhythm Squad placed 6th in Pom in Class IV and 7th in Lyrical in Class I, both highly competitive and large categories. Head coach Shelby Moquin couldn’t have been prouder of her team’s effort.
The Rhythm Squad consists of Bailee Wenke, Brystol Wiley, Lexie Wiley (the team’s only senior), Lilly McEntee, Chloe Keefe, Kailey Chaplin, Armoney Adams, and Coley Holtkamp.
Hard Work and Early Mornings
The team’s success came after months of dedication and sacrifice, beginning their preparation back in August.
“This team has been working so hard since August, which is when they learned all their routines. We meet two times a week, usually super early in the morning—around 6:15 or 6:30 a.m.,” Moquin said. “These early practices mean they need lots of caffeine!”
In her first year as head coach, Moquin appreciated the team’s patience and willingness to embrace new challenges.
“I am really proud of them for taking on tough routines and not giving up. This year’s dances were very different from the past ones. It’s my first year coaching this team, and they were very kind, giving me the time I needed to figure things out,” Moquin said.
The Championship Experience
Beyond the competition itself, the state championships provided valuable bonding time for the squad.
“At the ISDTA Championships, we got to spend a lot of time together. It was full of laughs and great times we will hopefully always remember,” Moquin said. “They faced some strong teams, and that experience will fire them up for next year. We are moving forward and looking up!”
Looking Ahead
The Rhythm Squad will now take a well-deserved break before returning to action in January.
“The Rhythm Squad will take a short, needed break now. Then, they will perform at all Friday home basketball games in January,” Moquin said. “They will finish their season with Rhythm Night on February 1st. At that show, they will perform their State routines, plus solos, a co-ed dance, and routines from local dancers.”
Photo courtesy of Shelby Moquin.
