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Sparkles do it again

CCHS dance team posts score of 85.69 to easily win second-consecutive state title

Members of the Sparkles dance squad leap in unison during their championship performance. The team finished with a score of 85.69, easily outdistancing second-place Astoria who finished with a score of 76.03.

LON AUSTIN/ CENTRAL OREGONIAN

Members of the Sparkles dance squad leap in unison during their championship performance. The team finished with a score of 85.69, easily outdistancing second-place Astoria who finished with a score of 76.03.

Lon Austin

March 18, 2013

The Crook County Sparkles dance squad had another outstanding performance as they won their second-consecutive OSAA Class 4A Small Dance and Drill State Championship.

“I don’t know what to say right now, I’m flabbergasted,” said head coach Amanda Estes.

Estes, who has been the head coach for the past five seasons, has never had a team finish lower than second-place, and has won four state championships in her brief tenure.

The Sparkles, who were undefeated all season, were expected to win the state championship, and the team did not disappoint. Although it was not their highest score of the season, the Sparkles posted a solid 85.69 to easily outdistance the field. Astoria finished second (76.03), and Mollala came away with third (68.17). Rounding out the scoring in the 4A small division were Cottage Grove (67.72), Banks (66.14), and Sweet Home (63.14).

Team captains Page Scofield, Analee Dunn, Raynee Roberts, and Kaitlyn Blank were all excited about the championship.

“It’s a really incredible feeling,” said Scofield. “I think this is the best we’ve ever done and I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved.”

“I’m proud of my team,” added Dunn. “I think that we went out there and gave it all that we could. We left it all out there on the floor and it paid off. Thanks to our coaches who do everything for us. We wouldn’t be where we are without them.”

“It’s awesome and it feels good,” added Roberts. “Thanks to everyone for believing with me and thanks to everyone who’s inspired me to be the dancer I am today.”

Scofield, Dunn, and Roberts were also named to the all-state dance squad.

“The girls were awesome,” Estes said. “Tonight was the best they have ever performed. I’m just so proud of all the girls.”

Other championship teams at this year’s finals were Valley Catholic (3A/2A/1A, 83.97), Stayton (4A large, 88.06), Marshfield (5A small, 78.53), Putnam (5A intermediate, 84.64), Lake Oswego (6A small, 86.22), Pendleton (6A/5A large, 86.56), and Clackamas (show, 86.67).