Bulldogs dance team crowned district grand champions

The Sandpoint High School dance team was crowned as district grand champions in the kick, hip hop, and dance categories. The team scored the highest combined score to help them take the win.

An amazing feat for a team that has had to work through many trials and tribulations this season. They've had multiple coaches come and go over the last three years and their most recent coach stepped down over the 2022 Christmas break.

“We didn't even know if our team would be able to continue the season,” dance team assistant Rebekah Little said. “With four seniors on our team, we had some very worried parents.”

Thankfully Amber Laiche, Sandpoint High School Alumni, stepped in mid-season to help coach the girls.

Laiche’s impressive resume as a dancer was a huge confidence booster for Sandpoint. Previously, she served as captain of the Bulldogs dance team before continuing to dance at the University of Montana.

After college, Laiche successfully tried out to be a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. Unfortunately due to injury, she had to end her season early. She has since recovered and intends on trying out again this upcoming season.

“She has been a huge asset to our community and dance team,” Little said. “Our girls look up to Coach Amber and have nothing but respect for her. She is truly a hero to our team.”

The Bulldogs have had a successful run over the last few years claiming the district grand champion title in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2020.

This year's team consists of Mikah Little, Riley Adam, Lily Barker, Hannah Loomis, Noah Roark, Camille McClelland, Lena Krause, Elle Heiss, and captains Haleigh Knowles and Madison Coon.

The team performed to the song “Bossy” by Kelis for their kick routine and “Here I come” by Fergie for the hip-hop category. Both routines were choreographed by Kate Cassidy and cleaned by Laiche.

In the dance category, the team performed a contemporary routine to “Do you” by Troy Boi which was also choreographed by Cassidy and cleaned by Laiche.

“This team is an extremely hard-working team of girls that pulled it together for competition in under three weeks with a new coach and earned a victory due to their efforts, strength, and dedication,” Little said.

Next up for the Bulldogs is the State Championship. The team will travel to The Ford Center in Nampa and compete on Feb. 11 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.