Jazz Dance Returns to State

Now in her third season at Holy Family and 18th overall year of coaching, Head Coach Emily Gibson has guided the team through a season defined by growth, refinement, and competitive momentum. This year’s state berth reflects not just talent, but a steady progression that has sharpened with each performance.

Leadership has been central to that climb. The team’s captains — seniors Caitlin Miller, Roma Mortensen, and Maddie Stohlmeyer, along with junior Catherine Beach — have set the tone in practice and performance alike. Their presence anchors a varsity roster that includes four seniors: Miller, Mortensen, Stohlmeyer, and Izzy Bresnan. That veteran core has brought composure and experience to a demanding competitive schedule.

At State, Holy Family will take the floor to a dramatic cover of Justin Timberlake’s “Cry Me a River” by Tommee Profitt and Nicole Serrano. The selection signals the tone of the routine — intense, controlled, and technically demanding.

According to Gibson, the team’s strength lies in its powerful execution and refined technique. The choreography leans into the music’s emotional weight while demanding precision and control throughout. The result is a routine that balances strength and artistry — technically sharp while remaining fully engaged with the music’s mood and pacing.

Individual honors further underscore the program’s depth. Four Holy Family dancers earned All-State recognition this season: Caitlin Miller and Maddie Stohlmeyer in Jazz, and Catherine Beach and Meghan Gute in High Kick. Their accolades highlight the caliber of athletes within the program and reinforce the competitive standard the team carries into the state meet.

Still, Gibson points to something beyond trophies and placements as the defining mark of the season.

“The best part of the season has been hearing the girls talk about how much fun they’ve had, seeing how close they’ve grown as a team, and proudly watching their routines become stronger and more confident with each performance,” she said.

That combination — technical progression and team culture — makes this return to state particularly meaningful.

“We’re so excited to be returning to the State Tournament! It’s the perfect way to cap off such a fun and rewarding season,” Gibson said. “We’re incredibly proud of how hard this team has worked and the positive, supportive culture they’ve built together. Their dedication, growth, and commitment to each other have made this season truly special.”

As the Fire prepares to step onto the state floor once again, the focus is clear: execute with precision, perform with conviction, and represent a program that continues to raise its own standard.

Tickets and the performance schedule are available on the MSHSL website.