The Universal Dance Association (UDA) nationals is one of the most highly anticipated competitions for collegiate dance teams. This year the St. Joseph’s University, New York’s Long Island Campus Dance Team achieved some of its highest placings.
Being in the open division, the Golden Eagles competed against all NCAA Division II and III teams in the nation. Finishing sixth in Pom and 12th in Jazz, competing on the largest stage for collegiate dance isn’t something the team took for granted.
“In the month leading up to nationals, our team practiced every day for several hours to ensure we were fully prepared to perform on stage,” said Captain Olivia Cioffi. “These practices focused on cleaning choreography, improving synchronization and building endurance. We also competed in several competitions prior to UDA to receive valuable feedback from judges on our routine and overall performance.”
Though their practices consist mainly of dancing, the team also took part in team-bonding activities to help ease the tension.
“To calm our nerves and uncertainties, we remind ourselves that we have been working on these specific routines since August. We have put countless hours of time, effort and dedication into perfecting our dances. When it comes time to perform, we focus on trusting our training, trusting each other and believing in the preparation we have done as a team,” Cioffi continued.
The SJNY Dance Team preparing for their big performance.
By competition day, that trust built in practice carried over backstage and was emphasized with a pep talk from Coaches Taryn Jewell and Stephanie Cucarese.
“Being with the team backstage is a whirlwind of emotions. We begin with a talk from our coaches, who help calm our nerves and remind us how much they believe in us. Hearing the music from other teams while waiting backstage is a surreal experience because we know our time to perform is also coming up. Although that anticipation can feel overwhelming, as a team we felt more excited than nervous. We were eager to finally show everyone our routines, and in that moment, many of us also became emotional, realizing how much this experience and our team meant to us,” said Cioffi.
After their backstage ritual, the team was eager to hit the stage.
“This team has been one of the most hardworking and dedicated groups I have ever been a part of. Performing alongside them was both motivating and comforting because I knew that every single person was going to give their all in every moment of the routine. I also found comfort in knowing that they believed in me just as much as I believed in them. That trust and connection played a key role in our performance and was a major factor in why we placed so well,” said Cioffi.
As the routine came to an end, the adrenaline lingered long after the team left the stage. The weight of months of preparation mixed with feelings of relief, excitement and anticipation in the moments that followed.
“After performing, we were able to watch our dances on a television behind the stage that the competition has. Seeing our performance immediately brought a strong sense of relief and excitement. When watching it back, we could tell that everyone gave their all on the floor, and it was clear that the hard work, long practices and dedication truly paid off in that moment,” said Cioffi.
This year, the dance team finished sixth in Pom and 12th in Jazz.
Going into the awards ceremony, the team was proud of their performances no matter the outcome. When they heard their name in a high ranking, the team was overjoyed.
Outside of the competition, the team made many other memories enjoying the sites and activities Florida has to offer.
“On the day we landed, we spent time at the parks as a team, which helped us relax and enjoy being together before the intensity of competition. The following day, we went to a studio to practice and clean our routines in preparation for the competition the next day. We also had a team and family dinner, where we were able to spend time with our families and friends. Being surrounded by their support in Florida truly showed how much encouragement and love we have behind us as a team,” said Cioffi.
This being the last nationals for Cioffi, she wanted to focus on making every moment count with her team.
“This team experience has shaped me not just as a dancer but as a person. Our coaches play a huge role in that; they believe in us, push us to be our best and constantly challenge us to improve, both individually and as a team. Every practice, every competition and every trip together has created memories and lessons that I’ll carry with me forever. Being part of this team isn’t just about winning; it’s about growing together, supporting each other and giving our all because we know our coaches believe in us every step of the way,” she concluded.
The UDA nationals is one of the most highly anticipated competitions for collegiate dance.
