On December 12, Pearl River Central High School’s Dance team, The Blue Angels earned first place in the Pom division at the annual Mississippi High School Activities Association’s statewide dance competition in Jackson.
According to its website, the MHSAA is responsible for both academic and athletic competitions.
Sadie Penton has coached the dance team for the past two years and said being first in the state is one of the best feelings.
The team competed against 16 other dance teams in the jazz and pom categories, Penton said. The Blue Angels placed third in the jazz division. Last year, the group took home top honors in this division, Penton said.
The jazz routines are more contemporary, modern and sassy, Penton said. Since there aren’t as many rules, the jazz style is more about technique and emotions.
In the pom division, judges studied the teams’ pom pom technique, creativity, group execution and overall impression, Penton said.
“The girls use their pom poms to create sharp and intricate motions,” Penton said.
Along with performing at football games and pep rallies, the team practices four days a week for competitions, Penton said. After football season, the Blue Angels practice five days a week.
“I’m very, very proud of them,” Penton said. “I push them hard and make them work and there are times when they aren’t loving it, but it pays off in the end. Faith plays a large role in our team. We pray before every function. When God is with us, there’s nothing we can’t do. He gave us our talents and our successes. I don’t take the credit, it all goes back to God.”
Learn more about MHSAA and Pearl River Central School District at http://www.misshsaa.com and www.prc.k12.ms.us.