ANGOLA, Ind. – The Trine University High Voltage Dance Team made history at "The College Classic" hosted by the Dance Team Union (DTU), capturing the Division III Hip-Hop National Championship in a weekend filled with passion, perseverance, and a record-breaking performance.

The competition team consisted of Chelsea Drummond, Alison King, Lilian Medalen, McKenna Monnell, Brooke Thomas, Bryli Tobolski, Molly Trotter, Elizabeth Welker, and Jenna Zabona. They were led by Head Coach Christina Richardville, technical assistant coach Kevin Grant, and assistant acro skills and tricks coach Noah Vorndran. 

The dancers competed in the preliminary round for Division III Hip Hop with eight other teams on Saturday, April 12, scoring an 85.68 which put them in third place going into finals on day two. After listening to judges critiques the team made a few key adjustments to sharpen their routine and refocused their energy for their final performance. 

The team's final routine didn't disappoint on day two of competition. The dancers delivered their cleanest and most emotionally charged routine of the season, earning a finals score of 90.26, a program record. They edged out Ramapo College by just 0.24 points to take home the National Championship.

"I've been an assistant coach for the last three years, and we've gone from not making finals to winning a championship," said Grant. "I attribute that to determination, motivation, and perseverance. Coach Christina and I went into this season with a game plan, and the team had a consistent work ethic, which helped us make history for the program. Teamwork makes the dream work!"

For Head Coach Christina Richardville, the moment marked a full-circle journey—from her time as a student-athlete at Trine to leading this year's championship team.

"I could not be prouder of this team," Richardville said. "From day one of choreography, these student-athletes had such determination and focus, amazing team chemistry, and remembered their 'why' throughout preparation for nationals. In 2015, I was a freshman on our competition team when we won a national title under Coach Shea Sims. That feeling stayed with me—and I wanted that for this team. Ten years later, to be the one leading this incredible group and watching them achieve that same dream… I am truly blessed."

The High Voltage team extends its heartfelt gratitude to its sponsors, Trine University, alumni, family and friends. They especially want to thank the parents whose support, both in person and from afar, made all the difference. They are incredibly thankful for the love and support surrounding their team and program. It truly takes a village, and they are proud to represent Trine University on the national stage and bring home the school's third national team championship in the past three years.