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GRACELAND UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
Dance Earns Fifth-Place Finish at Heart Championship, Two Dancers Named All-Conference

Dance Earns Fifth-Place Finish at Heart Championship, Two Dancers Named All-Conference

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OLATHE, Kan. – The Graceland University competitive dance team delivered a strong performance at the 2025 Heart of America Athletic Conference (Heart) Competitive Dance Championship, securing a fifth-place finish in the team standings. The event was held at the Cook Center on the campus of MidAmerica Nazarene University, where the Yellowjackets competed against top teams in the conference.

Graceland recorded a final team score of 78.67, placing behind Grand View University (89.00), Baker University (83.73), Mount Mercy University (81.57), and William Penn University (80.03). The Yellowjackets finished ahead of Benedictine College (72.63) and Missouri Valley College (59.30).

Despite missing a podium finish, Graceland showcased precision in technical execution, synchronization, and routine difficulty, demonstrating growth throughout the season. The team's choreography and formations were well-received by judges, reinforcing Graceland's reputation as a competitive program in the Heart.

Heart All-Conference Recognition

In addition to the team's success, two Yellowjackets earned Heart All-Conference honors.

  • Cadence Sires was named to the Heart Second Team All-Conference for her outstanding performance and technical execution throughout the season. Her ability to execute difficult choreography and maintain high energy in competition contributed significantly to Graceland's team score. This is the second consecutive season Sires has been named to the all-conference team. 
  • Velia Castillo received Heart Honorable Mention All-Conference, recognizing her versatility, control, and performance quality in competition. Castillo's commitment to refining skills throughout the season helped elevate the team's overall presentation.

Heart Conference Awards

Grand View University secured its second-straight Heart Competitive Dance Championship, finishing with the highest team score at 89.00. The Heart Dancer of the Year honor was awarded to Alexis Van Utrecht (Grand View), who achieved the highest individual score in the All-Conference tryout submission process.

The 2025 Heart Co-Coach of the Year award was shared by Lynsey Payne (Baker University) and Tanisha Phelps (Mount Mercy University) for their leadership and contributions to their programs.

Next Up

The Yellowjackets will look to build on this strong showing as they prepare for upcoming NAIA regional competitions and future invitational events.

For more information on Graceland competitive dance and all Yellowjackets athletics, visit GUjackets.com.