Another State Dance weekend is officially in the books. I say this every year, but State Dance is easily my favorite tournament to cover for Q-92. I’ve covered State Cross Country, Football, Basketball, and Golf, but State Dance just has a different vibe. The atmosphere at the Target Center is electric—especially the parents who dress wildly to represent their schools and daughters.
The Skyway Life & Section 130
This year featured a first for me: I stayed in a hotel for the duration of the tournament rather than staying with my daughter. The Hampton Inn is connected by the skyway to the Target Center, making it incredibly convenient.
My home base was Section 130, which is a fantastic spot to broadcast from. For the last few years, my partner on the air has been Dee Dee Schommer. She is phenomenal—knowledgeable, well-spoken, and deeply rooted in the dance world. Her daughter, Aliyah, is a Shadow coach, and Dee Dee has been a dedicated dance mom for years.
The “Simon Says” Mix-Up
We had a hilarious moment on Saturday during the High Kick competition. Crosby-Ironton performed a “Simon Says” themed dance. They had great music and bright yellow, red, blue, and green uniforms to represent the electronic handheld game.
As Dee was explaining the theme on air, I was completely lost! I’m old-fashioned; when I played Simon Says in school, the teacher just told us to put our hands on our heads. I had no idea there was an actual electronic game! I told Dee right there on the air that I didn’t have a clue what she was talking about. Our listeners thought it was hilarious, and friends started texting me pictures of the game. We had a good laugh at my expense!
Unforgettable Moments
Celebrating with the team, parents, and fans on Friday night after the Shadows won the State Championship in Jazz was a total thrill. While capturing video for the station, I caught a beautiful moment of Chloe Gloege finding her dad in the crowd and jumping into his arms with pure joy. That’s an image I’ll always remember.
I also had the chance to interview the Shadows’ managers, Macy and Zoey, as well as dance parents Tim and Natalie Pust. Hearing the managers talk about the hard work that goes on behind the scenes was eye-opening. Tim and Natalie spoke so touchingly about how they cherish the connections made with other parents and grandparents, and of course, how proud they are of their daughter, Makiah.
The $56 Pizza
One of my social media posts from the weekend really took off. While looking for a snack near Section 130, I noticed the menu at the pizza stand: $55.99 for a 6-slice pizza! I couldn’t believe it, so I posted a photo. The responses were a blast to read. Needless to say, I didn’t buy the pizza! Instead, I opted for the Supreme Mac and Cheese with bacon bits for $12.99. It was actually a great portion and very tasty.
A Tradition of Excellence
The Shadows proved once again why they are one of the elite programs in the state, winning back-to-back State Championships in Jazz on Friday and taking State Runner-Up in High Kick on Saturday.
As is tradition, I celebrated the only way I know how on the drive home: a stop at the Taco John’s in Hutchinson. See you next year, Target Center!
Raymo's Ramblings 