YORK, Neb. – From the Freeman Center in York, Neb., Concordia University, Nebraska Competitive Dance emerged with a trophy. The Bulldogs took third place at the York University Crown Classic, a competition featuring some of the NAIA’s best teams. Concordia earned a score of 83.77 for an improvement compared to its season opening dual in January.
Head Coach Mandi Maser’s squad has competed in three events so far this 2025 season. The York Crown Classic was the best yet.
“The dancers were impressive on all levels today,” Maser said. “York hosted a wonderfully run event with a ton of teams with a lot of talent. Earning a top-three placement was a great boost to our confidence. All eight dancers were standouts today. I’m really happy for our team and proud of the work they put in leading up to this big weekend of competition.”
The competition roster on Friday was a youthful one without a single senior. It included juniors Taylor Larsen and Elise O’Neill, sophomores Hanna Bitner and Kaylee Powell, and freshman, Alexis Carlen, Brynley Cooper, Bianca Romshek and Jozlin Schmidt. Collectively, they increased their score from 80.7 (on Jan. 18) to 83.77 on Friday.
The result was also an improvement from the 2024 York Crown Classic when the Bulldogs placed fifth with a score of 76.77. The York Crown Classic combines with the Concordia Day of Duals for a major weekend of NAIA cheer and dance competition.
York Crown Classic Competition Roster
· Hanna Bitner (Valentine, Neb.)
· Alexis Carlen (Staunton, Ill.)
· Brynley Cooper (Lincoln, Neb.)
· Taylor Larsen (Ravenna, Neb.)
· Elise O’Neill (North Platte, Neb.)
· Kaylee Powell (Central City, Neb.)
· Bianca Romshek (Bellwood, Neb.)
· Jozlin Schmidt (Bentonville, Ark.)
The Bulldogs will quickly turn around to host the Concordia Day of Duals on Saturday. The action will get started at 10 a.m. CT from Friedrich Arena. The event is slated to include 12 cheer and 16 dance teams in a dual format that showcases two routines from every squad. For more details on the event, click HERE.