Crystal Lake Central, Jacobs squads bring home titles

CRYSTAL LAKE – A police escort accompanied the Crystal Lake Central High School pom squad Monday as they returned from their third consecutive state victory.

“It’s definitely good to have won all the three years,” said team captain Kolleen McNalis, a senior. “It’s really gratifying to be part of all those teams.”

The 12 girls won the Class AA pom category and placed third in the AA open pom category for TEAMDance Illinois, which hosted the competition in Peoria during the weekend. It’s the highest award that this particular division offers.

Kelly Flannigan, one of the three coaches, said this was the first time in school history that the team had captured the title three years in a row. She credited constant practicing and dedication.

“We go a good nine or 10 months a year; they’ll have time off and the end of April is tryouts,” Flannigan said. “We practice three days a week, and we typically go two and a half hours.”

Principal Steve Olson said it was this work ethic that kept the team winning.

“It’s obviously great kids who are willing to put forth the work to make it happen,” Olson said.

In his six years at the post, Olson said he had come to expect success out of the squad.

“It’s pretty much a tradition here at Central High School for them to come back with some level of awards,” Olson said.

Barb Rupe, a Lakewood resident whose freshman daughter competed, said she was proud of the girls.

“I’m so glad the weeks of work the girls did paid off,” Rupe said. “I’m so glad she’s in driver’s ed now.”

As for next year, coach Flannigan said her goal was simple: “Go for the fourth one and retire.”

The Jacobs High School dance team also competed Sunday in the TDI State Championships.

Out of 17 schools, they placed first in the Class AAA hip hop category, and out of 11 teams, they placed first in AAA open pom.

The Jacobs teams consist of 22 girls and are coached by Kristen Semrich and Corinne Anderson.

The Jacobs High School dance team has won seven state titles in the past five years – five in hip hop and two in open pom.

CL Central roster:

 Kolleen McNalis – captain

Julia Frazier – co-captain

Alli Tevyaw – junior co-captain

Jessica Hessler

Janet Vermillion

Lexi Stray

Michelle Marr

Emily Coffey

Brianna Burnette

Bethany Stein

Jenna Rupe

Lauren McNalis

 

Coaches:

Kelly Flannigan

Michelle Flannigan

Brittany Dowell