Bearden dance wins double state title, including first ever in game day

The Bearden dance team brought home two state titles in the game day and pom categories at the TSSAA championships.

The dance team has been working particularly hard this year to win the game day category. In last year’s state championship, Bearden lost game day to Collierville High School by 0.7, putting them in second place. 

Junior Kenzie Bankes and the rest of the dance team are especially proud of their results this year due to the immense dedication and effort the team put into winning game day for the first time in history – and getting revenge on a rival team. 

“It felt almost surprising because we lost by 0.7 points, and that’s what drove us to win game day at nationals,” Bankes said. “We know we didn’t want to have that feeling ever again.

Added senior Ruby Fisher: “After winning the title at nationals, we knew we were capable of beating Collierville at state. We just had to fight a little harder, so after finally beating them, it felt so relieving and we got to prove we are truly the winners and the best in the state and nationally.”

The dance team has put in immense preparation to improve their results at state tracing back to workouts throughout the summer, choreography in September, and rehearsals up until the state competition. 

“I think last year we had sight at the end goal, and this year we are focused on the journey,” Coach Hannah Keathley said. “We were able to enjoy each part of the journey going to state, whether it was the tough times, or the fun times.

“Whatever it was, we enjoyed each part of the journey.”

The next challenge for Bearden will be the UDA National Dance Team Championships the first weekend of February.