Yellowjackets Place Sixth at Heart Conference Dance Championships

DES MOINES, Iowa — The Graceland University dance team placed sixth at the 2026 Heart of America Athletic Conference Cheer & Dance Championships, finishing with a total score of 78.09 after the prelim and finals rounds of competition.

The Yellowjackets opened the event with a prelim score of 77.71, advancing to the finals round where they delivered a 78.21 performance score to close the competition. The routine emphasized technical execution, synchronization, and clean transitions across multiple segments of choreography, including sharp formation changes, precision turns, and controlled floor work.

Graceland's performance highlighted strong musicality and consistent timing through its combination sequences and high-energy sections. The squad maintained disciplined spacing and rhythm through each section of choreography while executing several layered movement combinations that tested both endurance and technique.

In the final standings, Grand View captured the conference title with a score of 95.95, followed by Mount Mercy (90.40) and Baker (90.18) to round out the podium. Graceland finished sixth overall in the eight-team field, ahead of Missouri Baptist and Missouri Valley.

Graceland also earned recognition in the postseason awards, as Cadence Sires was named Second Team All-Conference, highlighting her contributions to the Yellowjackets' routine throughout the season.

Following the championship performance, the Yellowjackets reflected on the progress made throughout the season and the team's continued development in competition routines.

For more information on Graceland dance team and all of Graceland athletics visit GUjackets.com.