Oberreuter, Welte Chosen for All Iowa Honor Dance Team
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Photo submitted by Coach Lexi Weber. Thanks, Lexi!
According to Dance Coach Lexi Weber, the seven hopefuls along other dance members from across the state participated in the All Iowa Honor Dance tryouts back in August of 2024. They learned the routine in a few hours and then auditioned later that day. The routine consists of pom, hip hop, and kick. In October, Weber was notified that Oberreuter and Welte were chosen for the elite group.
"Hundreds of girls tryout for those spots each year," said Weber. "We have been very lucky in having girls make it each time the past three years I've coached."
This was Renee Oberreuter's second calling to the All Iowa team. Last year she was chosen for the kick team.
"This year I definitely wasn't as nervous because I was just glad I made it one year so I wasn't going to be too disappointed if I didn't make it this year," said Oberreuter.
"I was super happy because I didn't really expect to make the honor team," said Welte upon learning that she was named to the Iowa All Honor Team. "It was super fun, and I hope that I'm able to do it again next year."
In February, the honor team members were given the final choreography for their performances and had to know it before going to official practices the first week of March. Delani performed her pre game routine both Friday and Saturday during the girls state basketball tournament. Renee performed on Saturday during halftime.
"The girls had long rehearsal days, around 5-7 hours all three days," explained Weber. "It's a great experience for them. I encourage my dancers to enjoy the process because they aren't guaranteed a spot next year. You can make it all four years or not at all. So it's a really big deal to make it.
"Delani and Renee are both very talented. They never complained once about having to practice for hours and hours because they knew it was really important. It's good for them to do these things as it helps boost their confidence, gets them out of their comfort zone and challenges them. They should be super proud of themselves; it's a big accomplishment."
The ladies have advice for anyone considering trying out for the dance team next year.
"Have fun and make as many memories as possible," said Delani.
"The dance team becomes a second family and I wouldn't have gotten through high school without them," added Renee.
Congratulations to both of you on your honor.