Antioch Community High School’s varsity dance team placed 9th in today’s IHSA Dance State Championship with a score 85.62. Although the varsity dancing Sequoits did not place in the top three, they showed an excellent example of Sequoit pride and should be proud of making it this far.

“This team is definitely the definition of dream team,” said junior Sam Ditzenberger. “I’m so excited to see if we can make it even further next year.”

“Making it to state was a dream then making it through eliminations to the second day was surreal,” said senior Haley Imler. “We worked so hard and accomplished all of our goals and it all paid off in the end.”

The team excitedly cheered for second place Vernon Hills High School. Vernon Hills and ACHS bonded at camp, and consistently support one another at tournaments.

The Sequoits performed their routine “Edge of Glory” and showed what it means to “Shine Bright Like a Diamond.”

“I think that we exceeded out expectations this year,” said Ditzenberger. “It absolutely amazes me how far we have come. After everything this team has gone through, I couldn’t be more proud. Instead of things that should have torn us apart, [they] motivated us to work even harder.”

Across the district, Lakes Community High School’s varsity dance team placed fourth with a score of 89.36, .35 away from being beating the third place team Fenton High School, with another Lady Gaga hit, “Applause.”

This competition was the last for seniors on the team. One of those seniors who took the competition floor for the last time was Imler. “This team has been my life since freshman year. It’s what made me who I am today. These girls are my family and knowing I’m done breaks my heart. I am so proud of us and all we have accomplished this year,” said Imler. “Every girl on this team shines and I couldn’t be more honored to be a captain of such a motivational team. I have loved every single minute of being on this team. The memories of these years are forever.”

District 117’s dance teams state journeys have come to an end but both with bright futures ahead.

Geneva High School took the state title in class 2A.