Lionettes Go National in February

Submitted

After several months of intense effort, the Lionettes are preparing to compete nationally. The girls are travelling to Disney World, in Orlando, Fla., on Feb. 4, to compete in a preliminary round in the category of Varsity High Kick. Their routine’s theme is “Africa.” The team regularly performs routines for Lisle High School athletic events, including football and basketball games.

To qualify for Nationals the girls needed to receive a superior trophy at Universal Dance Association camp during the summer, based on their mastery of three routines. The girls achieved a perfect score, earning all blue ribbons for their performances.

Should they place in the top 10-12 teams on Feb. 4, the team advances to the Finals round on Feb. 5.

“They earned all blue ribbons at camp, which has not happened in the 10 years I have been coaching,” said Coach Bonny Czerkies.

“They did this at their second competition of the season!” Czerkies said of their advancement to Florida. “I am extremely proud of their achievements and so much more with this team! They work hard and put every bit of effort they have into making this year a success!”

The team began practicing early this summer, dedicating at least two days each week to preparing routines for an upcoming camp. The girls currently meet daily, with extended workouts on Monday evenings. Their competition season, which began in November, extends through March.

"I am proud to be one of the captains of a team that has accomplished so
much already this season!" said co-captain Cassandra Croy.

Each year the team competes with TDI in five to six regional competitions working to gain a qualification for State. State is the final performances for the team each year, they get a brief rest before tryouts in April and then the season starts all over again.

“The Lisle Lionettes have had a great season so far. We have accomplished two of our main goals: making it to nationals and making it to the Illinois State Championship!” said co-captain Briana Bester, adding, “We are very excited to see how we do at nationals.”