Dance Repeats as National Champions in Two Routines

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — The Davenport University Dance Team has done it again, returning from Daytona as back-to-back national champions in DII Jazz and five-time reigning champs in DII Team Performance—marking the program's eighth and ninth national titles overall.

The season kicked off with early success at NDA Camp in Port Huron, where the team secured a Silver Paid Bid to Nationals. Six members were nominated as All-Americans, with three ultimately receiving the honor.

"From the very start of the season, this team shared a special bond," said head coach Courtney Houldsworth. "Our 15 veterans led with strength and purpose, setting the tone for a culture rooted in trust, accountability, and unity. Our freshman class bought in wholeheartedly, embracing our values and elevating the standard. The connection within this group was undeniable—and it became the foundation for everything we achieved."

Davenport defended their Division II Jazz title, earning first place for the second consecutive year with a powerful routine choreographed by AB Choreo (Alanah Kaiser and Brittney Bennett). The Panthers scored a 94.74 in prelims to take the top spot heading into finals against nine other teams, then upped their performance to 95.29—the highest score in program history. They held off fierce competition from Northwest Missouri State (93.83), Lindenwood University (92.63), and Valdosta State (92.54).

This year, DU also had the privilege of competing in the inaugural NDA Dance Grand Championship—a new division designed to showcase the highest-scoring routines across all divisions. With a final score of 94.29, Davenport proudly tied for third place alongside some of the nation's top programs, finishing just behind Boise State (DIA) with a 96.06 and Weber State (DI) with a 97.66. It was an incredible honor to share the stage with such elite talent.

In Division II Team Performance, the Panthers continued their dynasty, capturing their fifth straight national title in the category. Choreographed by Brandi Tucker, the routine scored a 89.5 in prelims and was polished to a 90.3 in finals, edging out competition that included Texas A&M International (83.8), Gannon University (82.93), and Assumption University (82.6).

"Our Team Performance routine this year represented a significant evolution for our program," Houldsworth said. "We challenged ourselves with elevated choreography, incorporating new team and small group skills that pushed us further than ever before. From the beginning of the season, we committed to setting the standard in Division II Team Performance—and that mindset showed in our final score, which earned us a 6.5-point lead over the next closest team."

Following the Team Performance finals, the Panthers had the opportunity to return to the floor for the Dance Grand Championship competition. This division featured the top-scoring Team Performance routines across all divisions, and Davenport was proud to represent DII on that stage once again. With a score of 88.63, the Panthers earned third place behind Northeastern University (DI) with a 91.03 and Sam Houston State University (DIA) with a 94.4.

Assistant Coaches Madison Letwinski and Morgan Bernstein, now in their third year, added: "We couldn't be more proud of this incredible team. Their dedication, energy, and heart made this season not only successful but so much fun. Watching them grow and shine on and off the floor has been the biggest reward."

Special thanks go to consultants Madelyn McCallum (acro/ tumbling) and Kendall Chapple (injury prevention/conditioning), whose behind-the-scenes impact helped the team stay strong, healthy, and competition-ready all season.

As the team closes its season, they extend heartfelt gratitude to their family, friends, alumni, and fans for their unwavering support. Coaches also wish a warm farewell and thank you to graduating seniors Victoria (captain), Jayda (captain), Lily (captain), Cora, and Jordy, whose leadership and passion have left a lasting mark on the program.

Lastly, sincere appreciation goes to Davenport University, the Athletic Department, and the Athletic Training Staff for providing these student-athletes with a platform to pursue excellence at the highest level.

With the 2024-2025 season officially complete, the Panthers now turn their attention to finishing the academic year and preparing for what's next. The new roster will be announced later this spring. For inquiries about private auditions, campus visits, or scholarship opportunities, please contact head coach Courtney Houldsworth at courtney.houldsworth@davenport.edu.

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