The Washburn University Dancing Blues Earn National Recognition for their Performances at The College Classic National Championship

      Topeka, Kan. – The Washburn University Dancing Blues left it all on the stage at The College Classic National Championship April 14 in Orlando, Florida. The team placed second in pom, third in hip hop and fourth in jazz in the Division II categories. This is the second year the Dancing Blues competed in The College Classic national championship, one of the largest college dance competitions in the country. 

      The Dancing Blues faced more than 10 Division II teams in each dance category and were judged on categories such as technique, difficulty, choreography, cleanliness and overall performance. 

      Grace Ellrich, Dancing Blues coach, said, “Our program is leveling up, and people are noticing. Auditions for the 2024-2025 academic year are less than two weeks away, and we have doubled the number of dancers auditioning compared to last season. I love that the Dancing Blues are getting the recognition they deserve.” 

      The team’s success this year adds to the Dancing Blues’ American Dance and Drill Team National Championship titles earned in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019. 

      “I couldn’t be more excited for the Dancing Blues. The effort they have given all year to improve their performances is impressive,” said Tia Benyshek, campus spirit coordinator, Washburn.    

      Benyshek continues, “Grace has an incredible way of lifting up her athletes and helping them achieve more than they thought they were capable of achieving. She has created a supportive and goal-driven atmosphere that has encouraged the team to win awards against some tough competition.”

      The Dancing Blues are an integral part of Washburn spirit. The dance team performs at all home football games, women’s and men’s basketball games and NCAA tournament games.  They also appear at university and alumni events.

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