Just For Kix cleans up at nationals

Owatonna Just for Kix dance sent 27 teams to the National tournament in Rochester last week, where every team scored platinum or higher on their routines.

The competition spanned four days, May 5-8, at the Rochester Civic Center and saw a field of dancers so large that even coaches had difficulties keeping up with their athletes.

“There were 6,761 dancers, 598 solos, duets, and small groups, with over 50 judges. On top of that, the competition ran continuously on three different floors at the venue. It basically took over the city of Rochester,” said Owatonna Just For Kix head coach Victoria Johnson.

Competition categories that Owatonna athletes competed in were hip hop, jazz, kix, and lyrical, with some athletes competing in solos, duets, and small group routines as well.

According to Johnson, Owatonna’s average scores of platinum and double platinum in each category are indicative of outstanding performances that greatly exceeded the standards in the judges’ eyes.

“It’s extremely rewarding to watch our athletes grow and see them receive recognition for their hard work. I have to say that the culture that we have at our studio right now is top-notch… It’s incredible. The kids are already excited for next year,” said Johnson.

While medals and awards are part of the goal for the athletes, what Johnson said she is most thankful for is the relationships built in the studio every season.

With athletes ranging from first to 12^th grade, Owatonna Just For Kix’s talented roster is made up of youth dancers looking to carry on the winning tradition well into the future.

Competition seasons end at the conclusion of the national competition; next on the docket for the team is summer technique training.

For those with kids interested in learning dance and joining Owatonna Just For Kix, registration for next year’s teams will begin on Monday, May 15.