MEQUON, Wis. – The goal was to secure the CIT trophy for the second year in a row. However, the Concordia University, Nebraska Competitive Dance squad wound up in third place at the Concordia Invitational Tournament hosted by Concordia University Wisconsin in Mequon on Saturday (Jan. 27) morning. The Bulldogs earned a score of 55.2 (out of a maximum of 70) while up against the Concordias of Ann Arbor, Chicago and Wisconsin. CUAA took back the title while scoring a 58.1.
Head Coach Mandi Maser’s dance program celebrated a CIT title at home in 2023. Though the placement wasn’t what CUNE had worked for, the Bulldogs believed they executed a strong routine.
“We performed and competed very well,” Maser said. “Unfortunately, the scores did not reflect the routine we performed for the event. We are confident in our team and the talents the dancers have. We are building on this experience and looking forward to our next competition on Feb. 9.”
2024 CIT Dance Results (max score of 70):
1. CUAA – 58.1
2. CUW – 56.8
3. CUNE – 55.2
4. CUC – 50.7
Maser again put seven competitors on the floor – just like the home competition a week earlier. CUNE’s score of 55.2 put it above fourth-place CUC (50.7). That total will not count towards the Bulldogs’ official NAIA scoring average. A different set of scoring rules are used for CIT, which includes two NAIA and two NCAA Division III members. Saturday’s competition roster is included below.
CIT competition roster:
· Hanna Bitner (Valentine, Neb.)
· Ryleigh Flesner (Greeley, Colo.)
· Taylor Larsen (Ravenna, Neb.)
· Avery Lewis (Seward, Neb.)
· Elise O’Neill (North Platte, Neb.)
· Kaylee Powell (Central City, Neb.)
· Maddie Wittstruck (Milford, Neb.)
Next up for the Bulldogs will be the York Invitational featuring both cheer and dance on Feb. 9. That event will serve as a precursor to Concordia Dance and Cheer Duals on Feb. 10. The event on Feb. 10 will serve as the final home competition of the 2024 season.