For over 35 years, the Universal Dance Association has hosted the UDA College Nationals, an opportunity for college dance teams to compete in the most prestigious collegiate national championship in the country.
Dancers and fans nationwide count down the days until this annual event, which showcases the undeniable talent and artistry of the routines.
Across the span of a three-day weekend, teams compete in various styles of dance, including Jazz, Pom, Hip Hop, and Game Day where they advance through the Preliminaries, Semi-Finals, and Finals, to earn a national title.
Differing from other sports, where teams are divided into Divisions 1, 2, and 3, dance separates teams by Division 1A, Division 1, and Open category.
Hosted by Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla., this year’s championship spotlighted the nation’s top teams, leaving viewers in awe of the dancers’ brilliance and coordination.
The University of Minnesota Dance Team is widely acknowledged as one of the most exceptional teams in the country. As three-time reigning champions in the D1A Pom category, Minnesota showcased a groundbreaking routine, earning them their 23rd national title.
Bella Saferstein, a freshman on Minnesota’s dance team says this year’s pom routine was unlike any routine they had competed before. “We wanted to do something very different,” said Saferstein. “Our theme I guess you could say was what it takes to be Minnesota.”
The routine’s audio guides viewers through the five fundamentals of Minnesota’s traditions, exemplified through the complexity and intricacy of the routine: Legacy is your foundation, energy is nothing without control, there is power in silence, unity is our strength, and unlock the spirit within.
“Being able to be a part of…this new version of our team was pretty incredible,” said Saferstein. “It meant a lot to me because not only was I able to dance for the university, but I was able to show my pride and all my hard work.”
The University of Minnesota was not the only team defending a national title. Following their winning performance to “My Way” by Frank Sinatra in 2024, The Ohio State University Dance Team featured yet another stellar routine to “Bolero” from “Moulin Rouge.”
Ohio’s routine received much appeal for the dancer’s accessory red gloves, and the unique choreography of the dance. While not beating their previous year’s near-perfect score, they scored a rounded 97, crowning them the D1A Jazz National Champions.
Perpetuating their excellence, the University of Minnesota took second place in the Jazz category with their heartfelt performance to “A Woman’s Work” by Kate Bush. The team’s lyrical jazz dance narrated the story of losing a loved one and grieving the last moments spent with them.
Minnesota dancer Trinity Baker reflects on her emotional experience saying, “I think dancing through that and kind of telling a story to the world was just really really cool to do.”
Six-time hip hop champions, University of Nevada – Las Vegas, beat their 2024 score and secured another win in the D1A Hip Hop category with their high-energy dance to “Spit Your Game” by The Notorious B.I.G.
This was not the only trophy the team brought home. In addition to their winning Hip Hop routine, they also secured a first-place win in the D1A Dance-Game Day category.
These college dance teams do not become national champions without dedication and hard work. Dancers train excessively throughout the season, while continuously working towards a common goal.
Saferstein describes the preparation for nationals as intense. The team endured twice-daily practices spanning several hours, but that didn’t prevent her and team teammates from relishing the moment. Saferstein said, “I honestly couldn’t think of a better team to have gone through two days and just every other practice together.”
Many teams may not interact during the weekend, but the atmosphere remains uplifting and supportive. “Everyone around you appreciates dance no matter what…and just getting to watch other teams perform something they’re so proud of…it’s honestly just such a great atmosphere,” Baker said.
While the schools competing in the D1 and Open Category didn’t receive as much publicity, their talent is still beyond worthy of recognition. The winning D1 schools include Hofstra University for their performances in the Jazz and Game Day categories, Cal State University Fullerton for their Pom routine, and Utah Valley University for their Hip Hop routine.
Minnesota State University, Mankato, won first place in both the Open Pom and Open Jazz categories and Northwest Community College in the Hip Hop category.
As competition season approaches, young dancers look up to the stars performing on the UDA stage. Baker is no stranger to success, but “If you told me four years ago that I’d be here, I wouldn’t believe you,” she said.
These athletes have a passion for dance, which is apparent through their stunning talent. Baker encourages young dancers to show their passion through dance and not let others determine their self-worth. “You at the end of the day is what matters; what you are putting in and how you feel about yourself,” said Baker. “If you have the passion, you’ll find your place.”
