NATIONAL CHAMPS. Diamond School of Dance sent its competitive dance teams to Florida to compete with some of the nation's best, coming out on top across several categories. (Contributed photos by Alicia Knopps)

Diamond School of Dance has spent more than 20 years serving the Chippewa Valley, fostering community as a training space for youth dancers. This year’s theme was “Elevate,” and the dancers certainly did reach the heights of success at a recent national competition in Destin, Florida.

Traveling to Florida to compete at the Mark of Excellence National Talent Competition June 25-June 30, the junior and senior high teams soared above the rest to capture the national title and highest-scoring routine. DSD’s Junior High Performance Company’s lyrical group routine, “The Hill,” secured their first overall position while the Senior High Performance Company’s contemporary routine, “Impending Doom of the Heart,” earned the top spot in their respective categories.

Senior High Performance Company team.

Maya and Ava Finn.

Individually, sister duo Maya and Ava Finn earned the coveted title of national champions in the teen duo/trio division (ages 12-14). Lily Knopps triumphed in the Mini solo division (ages 5 and under), also earning the national title and being crowned national solo master.

Alongside the DSD dancers, Competitive Director and Lead Choreographer Angelina Arroyo received recognition as well, being awarded “Best Choreography” for the routine “Patterns.”

Alicia Knopps, DSD’s owner, said the entire team is still in a bit of shock from its incredible success, and with it comes overwhelming joy. Every dancer worked hard all year, and such dedication and passion were validated at the competition. 

“We had an incredible week not only working hard rehearsing and performing but also making forever memories with our team. We will never forget all the memories! That is what it is all about,” Knopps said. “Being a part of a team like this is like being family. The studio is a second home to our dancers and this experience only brought us all closer.”

In a media release, DSD extended gratitude to the dancers, parents, instructors, and the whole Chippewa Valley community for their continuous support.

Lily Knopps.

Learn more about Diamond School of Dance on its website and on Facebook. Reach out at Info@diamondschoolofdance.com. DSD has been voted the top dance studio in the Best Of the Chippewa Valley Reader Poll since 2011.