After a special season, Geneva HS dance looks to leave it all on the floor again
GENEVA, Ill. — Congratulations to the Geneva High School Varsity Dance Team, who placed 2nd in the 2A class IHSA State Championship! The state final competition was held during late January in Bloomington and was the team’s ninth consecutive trip to State under head coach Amy VanWagenen. As 2021 reigning state champs, the girls faced a season of pressure and performance.
This year was back to normal for the GHS dance program, as all Varsity and JV dance competitions were held in person. The JV team competed a beautiful jazz piece performed to Tina Turner’s “Simply the Best”. They proved to be just that, placing first in three of their competitions. The Varsity team took 1st place in every regional competition this year including their sectional, and placed 2nd in the DuKane Conference.
Both teams performed numbers that were choreographed by head coach Amy VanWagenen, but it was the Varsity’s piece that came straight from the heart of the coach. The Varsity team performed a breathtaking lyrical piece to Ed Sheeran’s “Supermarket Flowers.” But this was not just any lyrical piece, as it was choregraphed and dedicated to Coach Amy’s mom whom she lost last year. The emotional lyrics and story behind the piece were the epitome of heartfelt. Every dancer poured their heart and soul into her choreography, knowing Coach’s mom was the reason for this masterpiece of a dance.
Following the conclusion of a very special season, the Geneva Dance Team will continue to work hard through the spring and summer, getting ready to take on another successful season!
Amy VanWagenen, GHS Varsity Dance Team Head Coach: “If I had to pick a word to describe this season it would be joyous. We were all so grateful and happy to be back doing what we do best in a pretty, normal setting. Football season was a blast being able to be back in front of a crowd and competition season was more fun than ever. Getting to see other teams and see the girls’ smiling faces was something I had taken for granted in the past. I can confidently say I won’t again. The girls performed a routine that will forever be near and dear to my heart. It was a dance dedicated to my late mother. Every time they danced, I held my breath and was blown away. We had many wins and ended up placing second in the state and I couldn’t be prouder of this group of ladies!”
Emily Mundry, Senior, GHS Varsity Dance Team: “We knew this year would be different. We were coming in as champions, performing a routine we knew was going to be emotional. I am so proud of how we executed this lyrical piece. The girls and I on this team were not just teammates, we were true friends. Us seniors were all united and it showed. I couldn’t be prouder of all my teammates and our accomplishments this year”.
Lilly Japlon, Senior, GHS Varsity Dance Team: “Being on the dance team this year was an experience I will never forget. The dance that was choreographed for us was incredible and the bind that we shared is something I will always cherish”
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