During the halftime of the men’s basketball game vs. Morningside this Wednesday, Feb. 1, the Northwestern dance team hosted Dordt for the program’s first ever “dance duel.” This was the first event in both teams’ regular seasons.
The event was judged by two officials, Beth Ruden and Katie Driggs. Each team’s act was required to have three different components: jazz, pom and hip-hop. The officials eyed each team’s choreography, technique and execution.
After the routine, each judge gave a score, which were then averaged together. NW and Dordt performed during halftime, and the judge’s scores were announced during a timeout during the second half of the basketball game.
The final scores had Dordt winning by a very narrow margin, 76.75 to 77.75.
Although NW was not able to come away victorious, senior Ashley Maloney still enjoyed the competition.
“The other dancers and I really appreciated the support and energy coming from the crowd,” Maloney said. “It makes it a lot more fun to perform when the audience gets involved.”
This competition was a big step for the dance program, and they are hoping to turn it into an annual tradition.
“Since I was a freshman, the team has come so far,” Maloney said. “And although I’m sad I’ll be graduating after this year, I am excited to see where the team goes from here.”
Both teams will be taking these routines to the GPAC competition in Hastings, Neb. on Saturday, Feb. 11.
