Mehlville High School Pantherettes Shine at UDA Camp

Every sports team is preparing for the upcoming season, and the Mehlville High School Pantherettes are no different.

The Pantherettes just got back from Universal Dance Association (UDA) Camp at Missouri State University, where they worked on technique, choreography and working as a team.

The 26-girl dance team received several awards and continued their streak after  in Florida in March. 

At the camp, the squad earned second place in the Home Routine with their new performance to Lady Gaga’s “Teeth.” The girls also got second place in Drill Downs, where dancers learn a series of military commands to increase discipline, concentration and focus.

On the last day, all girls compete and drill down to one final girl. Pantherette Shelby Straher won for the second year in a row. Three All-American dancers were also chosen from Mehlville. Erin Chlanda, Macy Salama and Mikaela Hutson will all get an opportunity to dance in London.

“The leadership we have this year is unbelievable,” said Coach Sarah Roth. “In our seniors, we have eight of the strongest dancers, motivators and teachers the squad has ever seen. They have very high expectations for themselves and for each other, so this season has already been set with a higher standard than ever.”

The girls developed four goals for the new season. They want to have a team average GPA of 3.5, solid technique, to compete at Nationals again and help each other accomplish all individual goals.

“The team this year is one of the strongest teams we have had in Pantherette history,” Roth said. “Technique levels are up, performance levels are up, and we have a group of hard-working and driven seniors to lead the girls.”

The squad has a lot more underclassmen this year, but Roth said the new girls were extremely strong dancers.

Roth, who has been coaching the Pantherettes for the last three years, received the Coaches Leadership award at UDA Camp. The coaches selected Roth for the award, who they thought was the most helpful and knowledgeable at camp.

“Our theme for the year is ‘Harmony,’” Roth said. “So we will work all year toward achieving the perfect harmony together.”