Sara Robbins, Becker, helped lead the St. Cloud State University Dance Team to a national title Jan. 17 at the College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship in Orlando, FL.

 

Robbins was part of a 16-member team that won the open pom pom title, beating schools such as Minnesota State University Mankato, The College of New Jersey, Sonoma State University and University of Central Oklahoma.

 

The three-day competition, which is billed as the nation's most prestigious dance team championship, was held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at the Walt Disney World Resort.

 

The winning routine -- performed at the Saturday semifinals and Sunday finals to a mashup of Latin and Salsa tunes -- was designed by Minneapolis choreographer Dani Eustice.

 

St. Cloud State had earned four top-five finishes in recent trips to nationals. This year's title came down to focus, according to Megen Rosvold, assistant coach.

 

 

“The girls this year had the drive and determination to get the job done,” Rosvold said. Dancers stayed “in their bubbles” and did not look at the competition, she said.

Dance Team started its season in June. Preparation for the national championship involved about 80 hours of rehearsal during the recent semester break.

 

The 16-member team, coached by Morgan Hanenberger and Megen Rosvold - consists of: Brittany Whittaker, captain, Monticello; Kelly Gillet, captain, Inver Grove Heights; Cassie Reimann, Elk River; Jenna Gregor, Prior Lake; Andrea Sampson, Mahtomedi; Maddie Gregor, Prior Lake; Samantha Sawyers, Stoughton, WI; Sara Robbins, Becker; Hanna Venteicher, Prior Lake; Taylor McIntyre, Prior Lake; Korissa Glynn, Hannibal, MO; Emily Cunningham, Lindstrom; Caitlin Gillet, Inver Grove Heights; Jenna LeMair, Prior Lake; McKenzie Anderson, Olivia and Katie Lord, Apple Valley.