Five young performers from Leanne Simms Dance Academy in Young have returned from Hobart after competing at the TFT Nationals, achieving standout results and making their community proud.
For studio owner Leanne Simms, the experience was about much more than the trophies.
“They have to actually qualify to go to Nationals, so they had to do a regional competition and a state competition in Sydney before they could even get there,” Leanne explained.
“To have five girls make it through to Hobart is just incredible.”
The Nationals is a five-day competition, but the juniors competed on a single day across a wide range of styles including lyrical, acro, jazz, contemporary and tap.
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“The girls have worked so hard, doing extra practice in class and at home," Leanne said.
"They’re all 100 per cent dedicated.
“It’s not just about placing, it’s about experiencing Nationals and encouraging each other.”
That team spirit was a defining feature of the trip.
“They were such a beautiful team, so supportive of each other," Leanne said.
"The camaraderie was just great.
“We aren’t a competition school, we are more supportive of each other.
"The girls didn’t feel pressured or that they had to place, they were there to have fun.”
The approach paid off with several podium finishes.
Calais Muller placed third in Primary Lyrical and third in Gifted Solo.
Joey Dennis secured third in Primary Jazz and second in Primary Tap.
Also representing the academy were Marlie Oakley, Savannah Fisher and Everlyn Arensten, who each delivered strong performances on the national stage.
Leanne said the Nationals experience was a first for many in the group.
“One of the girls’ families had been before, but for the rest of us it was our very first time,” she said.
Reflecting on the journey, Leanne emphasised how special the opportunity was.
“It was about being part of something bigger, enjoying it together, and celebrating what they’ve achieved," she said.
"I honestly couldn’t be prouder.”
