St. Ambrose makes history at NAIA Championships
St. Ambrose became the first program to win three NAIA Competitive Dance National Championships Saturday in Ypsilanti, Michigan, claiming the 2023 crown. SAU previously won titles in 2018 and 2021.
The Bees claimed the title in record-breaking fashion with their overall performance score. The 93.40 total from St. Ambrose is a new NAIA record.
"This year's routine is by far the hardest routine that the dance team has ever competed," stated head coach Danelle Langeneckert. "We continually try to push the envelope every year and this year's team definitely stepped up. I couldn't be more proud of this group of women," she said.
SAU scored 91.40 in the preliminary round on Friday, which accounted for 25% of their total score, and put them in first place after day one. They came back in Saturday's final round with a two-day high score of 94.07, worth 75% of the total, to make history with their overall score. St. Ambrose had zero deductions during their final round performance.
St. Ambrose took the red banner with 93.40, followed by Midland with 89.76, and Grand View with 86.64.
St. Ambrose cheer also claimed an NAIA title - making it the first time in the seven-year history of the NAIA Cheer and Dance National Championship that the same school has won both competitions in the same year.
