CSDA's Excel Team

The Excel program was started in 2010 after several dancers wanted to compete. At first I was hesitant - knowing personally how much time, energy and money it takes to be the best. However, my dancers sheer enthusiasm won me over and we jumped in and started competing.... And we stunk.

But we stuck with it and learned together. And through a blend of classes at our studio, master classes in the surrounding communities and conventions - we began to compete better and better. But it wasn't easy - the dancers had to commit to conventions if they wanted to compete and get used to failure (and horrible make-up at times). But we threw ourselves into research, watching thousands of hours of Instagram, Tik Toks and Youtube videos by learning with watching the very best teams. Soon we made it mandatory that all dancers take a technique class and choreography class for the dances they wished to compete in and the kids (and their parents) committed to attending conventions (which I have learned is the key to competition success).

In the last decade plus we have earned over 230 scholarships, countless choreography awards, 1st and last place awards. Through it all we learned to care and be kind to each other. Watching this program transform into what it is now, has been a blessing. Trophies dull and awards collect dust, but memories continue to make you smile. Win or lose; it doesn't matter. Who you are and how you treat others will move mountains for you. xxoo