The Dordt Defender dance team finished fifth at the GPAC Championship held on Saturday, March 7 in Orange City, Iowa at Northwestern College. The Defenders had a total of 81.8 for the event.

Dordt started with an 80.75 score in the prelims and was slotted fifth heading into the final and scored 82.15 for the final of 81.8.  Midland won the event by a substantial margin, scoring 95.41 to claim the team title.

Coach Mel Knobloch Said: 

I am beyond proud of the heart and adaptability this team showed today at the GPAC Dance Competition. Taking the floor after making major changes to our routine and music was no small task, but this team stepped up and delivered. Watching them execute two incredibly strong performances was the highlight of this competition season, especially seeing them hit their absolute best performances of the season right when it mattered most.

The excitement didn't stop with our team performances. I am thrilled to celebrate our three incredible dancers who earned All-Conference honors this weekend. A huge congratulations to Madelyn Eidsness for being named First-Team All-Conference, Addison Rozeboom for making Second-Team All- Conference, and Yanira Bueso for receiving Third-Team All-Conference honors. Seeing their individual artistry and technical growth recognized at the conference level is a testament to the high standard they set for themselves every day. 

Finally, I want to share a special note of gratitude for our seniors. Their contribution to this program this year has been immeasurable. They navigated every change and challenge with grace, serving as the steady foundation our team needed to reach this new level. Watching them lead the way to our strongest performances of the season was the perfect tribute to their dedication. It has been a true privilege to coach them, and while they will be deeply missed, the legacy they are leaving behind will inspire this team for years to come.

Full Results (PDF)
 

School	Prelims	Finals	Total
Midland	94.21	95.81	95.41
Doane	87.37	89.34	88.85
Concordia	87.68	88.09	87.99
Morningside	86.15	87.5	87.16
Dordt	80.75	82.15	81.8
Hastings	78.59	79.68	79.41
CSM	75.96	77.4	77.04
Northwestern	76.28	77	76.82
Briar Cliff	73.09	74.25	73.96