West Fork Dancers Shine at State Once Again

The West Fork Dance Team wowed the judges once again at the annual Iowa State Dance Team Association competition in Des Moines on Thursday, Dec. 4.

The team took first in Class III Pom, Class II Hip Hop, Class II Jazz and Class I Mix.

The dancers are no strangers to winning, as they have competed at state for more than a decade now, winning a total of 21 state championships.

Not only did the team perform well as a whole, but senior Kylin Johnson took first place for the fourth year in a row in Class II at state. She said the team couldn't have had a better year.

"This year was amazing!" she said. "I couldn’t have dreamt of a better year than what it turned out to be! Seeing our team's growth this season has been unlike anything. We truly care so much about each other and all believed in one another. I am so sad my season has come to an end but I’m grateful for this incredible sisterhood we created that I’ll cherish forever. I’ll forever reminisce on my time on this team but especially this year."

Coach Kaci Harper thanked their choreographers — Richelle Morrissey, Brittlyn Taylor, Breanna Elenz, and Michelle Barlas — for "pouring your creativity and passion into these routines." She also wanted to give a special shout-out to their assistant coaches, Roxanna Johnson and Madi Harper, for all of their efforts and contributions.

Several days after the competition, Harper said she was still in awe of everything the team had accomplished this year after they had faced a number of uncertainties throughout the season, including concerning injuries.

"A few days out from state and my heart is still so full," said Harper. "Watching this team take the floor with so much drive, trust, and love was one of my proudest coaching moments. They didn’t just dance—they told their story."