The competition will be held in Orlando, Florida, Jan. 17-19, at the Wide World of Sports complex on the Disney Resort property.
The combined performance will be in a new division called “Spirit Game Day,” and Game Day spirit is something both teams are well known for when football season arrives each fall. Backed by the music of the Pride of the Plains Marching Band, they provide unmatched entertainment to tailgaters in Gorilla Village, during halftime performances, and throughout the game.
The Pitt State Crimson & Gold Dance Team is under the direction of coach Rocky Restivo and assistant coaches Elizabeth Smith and Morgan Kinsey, while the Pitt State Spirit Squad is under the direction of Abbi Reasor.
Senior Kassandra Lewis (Parsons) will be the first in Pitt State history to compete all four years while on the team. Senior Katie Nelson (Gardner) will compete for her second time.
“This significant opportunity allows PSU’s student-athletes to compete against the best college teams in the nation, gaining life-changing experiences and showcasing their talent on a national stage,” Restivo said.
Very few teams from Kansas and the MIAA Conference reach this level of competition, making it a proud accomplishment for the Gorillas, he noted.
Additionally, participation in Nationals serves as a vital recruitment tool, attracting top talent to the Pitt State Dance Team.
Since September, the team has been diligently working on their routines, balancing intense preparations for Nationals alongside their weekly commitments to Gorilla Game Day activities and other university events. Even over Winter Break, the teams put in many hours of practice.
“Each year we take a team down to Florida to compete, it amazes me the growth the student-athletes make from the beginning of the process to the end,” Restivo said. “They learn so many life lessons and make so many memories that will carry through their lives.”
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