By Brenna Angelo

The Granada Hills Charter dance team competed at the WCE Dance Nationals on March 3. The team took home multiple awards, showcasing their hard work throughout the year. 

After months of long practices and preparation, the team stepped onto the national stage ready to perform and it showed. 

Every dancer performed with confidence and energy, showing how much effort went into each routine. 

“I felt really excited because we trained really hard this year and we were really determined to do well,” senior Chloe Yoon stated. “I was also proud of my team for all of our hard work and commitment while we were competing.”

For some, dance has been a lifelong journey. Junior Vivian Ok shared how she started training at just four years old, inspired by her older sister, who danced before them. 

“My sister was kind of the blueprint for me,” Ok said. “So my goal was always to be like her.” 

One of the biggest highlights of the weekend was sophomore Zachary Sanchez placing second in the improv category. Improv is one of the hardest categories because dancers do not have choreography beforehand, but rather have perform on the spot. 

Before performing, Sanchez explained how he prepares mentally. 

“I like to premeditate and have intentions before I perform,” Sanchez said. “I usually get into the zone, vibe out, and empty my mind. I finish with a short prayer before I go on.”

The solo performances were another huge win for GHC. In the sophomore division, sophomores Chloe Jan, Victoria Villalobos, and Zachery Sanchez all placed.

“I would say the best moment of nationals was having two of our teams make it into finals,” Sanchez said. “It was a dream come true for many of us.”

In the junior division, both juniors Carys Chow and Trinity Jose placed and earned silver for their solos. Jose placed first overall as a soloist.

Trinity also earned first place for dancer of the year which is an award that recognizes dancers who can perform well across multiple styles. It’s one of the most competitive awards at nationals, making it an even bigger accomplishment. 

The team faced challenges along the way, especially as the season progressed. 

“We started to get a little burned out towards the end of the season,” Ok said. “Practices would feel tiring and stressful, especially since many of us were balancing studio classes and other teams as well.

For the seniors, this competition meant even more. This season was very emotional for them all. 

“This season was different from the past seasons because it is my last year,” Yoon said. “I think I have grown so close to all my team members that it was bittersweet training and competing with them for the last year.”

By the end of the weekend, the team walked away with five placing soloists, a second place improv finish, and a dancer of the year title. But much more than that, they left with memories, stronger bonds, and a lot to be proud of.

WCE Nationals was more than just a competition for the dance team, it was a chance to show everything they have worked for and experienced together as a team. It is definitely a season they will not forget any time soon.