Grand Champion

Finishing their stellar competition season with a bang, Golden Girls not only won Overall Grand Champion at Crowd Pleasers but also came away with Best in Class for lyrical, novelty and pom dances, competing against teams of all sizes from both independent and public schools. Moreover, they won the Crowd Pleaser Award for their team novelty, an award given to only four teams. Showing off more than dance talent, the Golden Girls also earned highest GPA in the contest. 

Head Coach Madelyn Whitehead “could not be prouder of this team and all they accomplished.” She shared, “The competition this year was tougher than I have ever seen before, and they rose to the occasion with enthusiasm, determination and grace. At Crowd Pleasers, they were up against several public schools with teams of 30+ dancers. They walked away grand champions and certainly made a name for themselves!”

It takes more than practice to achieve at this level of competition. “The team worked tirelessly since August to perfect three highly competitive and intricate routines, all the while encouraging and loving one another,” said Coach Whitehead. “This team genuinely and effortlessly exudes God's confidence and joy – they are a blessing to coach!"

Assistant Coach Jacqueline Comparin agreed, “They were up against some of the toughest competition not only at TAPPS but also Crowd Pleasers. These students have constant dedication and determination and that is what drives this team to success.”

Team Captain Emily Bolling ‘23 said, “It has been a blessing to lead girls who are eager to learn, grow, work hard and love each other in all aspects of dance. The highlight of my senior year in Golden Girls is the team’s love for each other and their positive attitude and determination toward hitting our goals!”

Lieutenant and fellow senior Cate Calderon said one of the highlights of her four years on the team was the recent Crowd Pleasers competition. “As a senior, winning our second consecutive overall grand championship was the perfect way to end my last competition season. It was extremely special to spend such a fun day with my team.”

Congrats Golden Girls! SBS family, save the date for the Golden Girls Spring Show on Monday, April 17, 2023, where you can see the Golden Girls show off their talent, including their award-winning competition routines. In addition, you won’t want to miss special appearances by upper school vocalists, varsity cheerleaders and the infamous Golden Guys!

TAPPS Awards

• Miss High Kick and All-State Honorable Mention - Caroline Lane '24
• All-State 2nd Team - Cate Calderon '23
• All-State 1st Team - Emily Bolling '23 & Kendalyn Firenza '23
• Superior Rating - 3rd Place Overall - Division II

Crowd Pleasers Awards

• Overall Grand Champion 
• Grand Champion Classic Small Varsity Team - 3 High Platinum Routines
• Highest GPA in Contest
• Best in Class Lyrical, Novelty and Pom
• Crowd Pleaser Award for Novelty
• Soloists Emily Ann Haynes '24, Cate Calderon '23, Kendalyn Firenza '23 and Emily Bolling '23 - Platinum or High Platinum Routines