The Michigan State Dance Team (MSU Dance Team) is a celebrated component of MSU Athletics, blending athleticism, artistry, and community spirit. Competing annually at the Universal Dance Association (UDA) College Nationals in the prestigious Division IA category, the team consistently showcases its talent on the national stage while supporting various MSU athletic programs.
Notable Achievements at UDA College Nationals
At the 2022 UDA College Nationals, the MSU Dance Team delivered an impressive performance, finishing fifth in the pom routine, a testament to their precision and creativity. Additionally, the team secured a 13th-place finish in the highly competitive jazz routine, highlighting their versatility and artistic prowess.
Individual Honors and Recognition
MSU Athletics celebrates the accomplishments of its student-athletes across various disciplines:
- Liisa Vehviläinen: Recognized with Second Team All-B1G honors in tennis.
- Amara Brahmbhatt: Named to the All-Freshman Team for tennis.
- Matilde Morais: Earned the esteemed Sportsmanship Award in tennis.
Commitment to Community Engagement
The MSU Dance Team and its athletes actively contribute to the community, embodying the Spartan spirit of service:
- Skyla Schulte and Jalen Thompson: Nominated for the prestigious Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award.
- Dillon Tatum: Recognized for his dedication to initiatives like reading programs in elementary schools, volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House of Mid-Michigan, and supporting Team Impact.
- Kayli Johnson: A standout for her efforts in Detroit, including mentoring Detroit Public School students as a Student-Athlete panelist.
Academic Excellence
MSU athletes excel beyond the field and stage, earning accolades for their academic achievements:
- Numerous student-athletes have been honored as Academic All-Big Ten and Big Ten Distinguished Scholars, showcasing their dedication to academic success.
- Dominic Pianto: A shining example of academic commitment, recognized as a four-time Academic All-Big Ten and Big Ten Distinguished Scholar honoree.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Michigan State Dance Team continues to inspire with its dynamic performances, community engagement, and academic success. As they push boundaries and embody the Spartan ethos, they remain a source of pride for Michigan State University and its supporters.
Go Green! Go White!
