The modern dance team developed from pep squads. In the 1920s, schools and colleges started forming pep squads to inspire school spirit. At first, the groups borrowed many of their moves from marching bands and military drills. Over time, the groups combined more and more popular music and dance with the military exactness of their formations.
In 1940, Gussie Nell Davis organized the Kilgore College Rangerettes. The drill team became famous for performing at football games and other events, popularizing drill and dance teams.
Dr. Kay Teer Crawford is often called the “mother of drill team.” In 1967, she organized Miss Dance Drill Team USA — the first national competition for dance teams, drill teams, and dance studios. The competition was a big success and still runs to this day.
Routines can draw from many styles of dancing. Hip-hop, lyrical, and kickline dances are very common, but routines can even incorporate styles like disco, rock and roll, and gospel. Skills like tumbling and cheer are also very important.
There are many types of dance teams, but all of them focus on exact, synchronized motions and technical dance skills. Another key feature of a dance team routine is the ability to change formations very smoothly.
In competitions, dance teams are judged on many criteria, such as form, team unison,
showmanship, precision of motions, jumps, leaps, turns, choreography, and enthusiasm. Team spirit is also important!
Dance is fun, but it also has many health benefits. Dancing regularly can boost memory, improve flexibility, reduce stress, strengthen your heart, lessen depression, improve balance, and increase energy. Dancers are athletes!