Behind the Moves: Conant Charrelles reflect on the IHSA State Competitive Dance Championship

The Conant Charrelles pose for a team photo after arriving at the Grossinger Motors Arena for the IHSA State Competitive Dance Championship.

With adrenaline running high and “Underground” by Cody Fry blasting over the speakers, the Conant Charrelles took to the stage at the IHSA State Competitive Dance Championship at the Grossinger Motors Arena at Illinois State University. Following their 4th place finish at Sectionals, the team had a lot to prove at their first State appearance since 2021.

“As a whole team, I feel the only challenge was that we all were pretty nervous going into the state competition; however, once we stepped out onto the state floor, all of our nerves went away as we started dancing,” Charrelles member Mia Brownfield, ‘26, said.

Before the team was able to step foot on that dance floor, however, the dancers had to commit to a season’s worth of rigorous training. Coach Arden Panek of the Social Studies Department said, “We practiced almost every day on our routine, and the team pushed themselves physically to build strength and endurance, but we also did our best to make practices fun and lighthearted to continue to create fun memories along the way.”

The dancers didn’t just have to prepare themselves physically for their competition, but their preparation included mental training as well. Addison Campioni, ‘26, said, “I prepared myself emotionally by visualizing me performing the dance in front of the whole arena.”

Panek credits the success of the 2024-2025 season to the team’s determination. “These dancers were so consistent in their work ethic, accountability, and love for the team. It was beyond special to see this team lift each other up, support each other, and adapt to different situations all season long,” she said.

Despite the success of the season leading up to the State competition, the moment the Charrelles found out they would be competing at State was an emotional one. Dancer Isabelle Ferengul, ‘26, said “Qualifying felt very surreal. I’ve never been so proud of my team. We deserved this outcome more than anything, and to see us finally achieving it was the best feeling ever. I was not surprised; I knew we earned our spot at state. It was more of the nerves in the high-stakes moment.”

Although making it to state had been a long journey, Panek still remembers the feeling of watching the Charrelles give it their all at their state competition. “To see months of hard work come together on the state floor was so surreal and unbelievable to experience. Watching the Charrelles in their element and performing a dance they love is so rewarding and emotional,” she said.

The moment that stands out the most for dancer Brook Bullon, ‘26, happened immediately following the team’s performance. “My favorite memory from the weekend was right after our routine ended. We rushed over to hug each other on the state floor, and it was such a heartwarming moment. We were all overwhelmed with emotion in the best way possible,” she said.

Conant placed 24th at the competition. “After the State competition, there were so many emotions all at once. It was such an amazing experience, and we were all so grateful to have accomplished our biggest goal together as a team. It really was a dream come true,” Bullon said.

Panek added, “As sad as I am that our season has come to an end, I am beyond happy and grateful to reflect on all of the fun we had and successes we’ve experienced.”

Ferengul shares Panek’s sentiment towards this year’s team, saying it has been “an honor” being a part of it. “This team has been the ultimate dream team,” she said. “Such a talented, dedicated and passionate group of girls, and I wouldn’t have wanted to do this with anyone else.”

Their success has filled this team with optimism for future seasons. “This season is definitely one to remember, and I know that our whole team will carry these positive memories with us for years to come. The success of our season will fuel us to improve even more and to make it to State 2026,” Panek said.

Those who will continue with the Charrelles next year are excited for the upcoming season. Bullon says, “This season has ignited a new level of passion within our team, and we’re all excited for what’s next. We’re so grateful for the growth we’ve experienced and can’t wait to channel that energy into next season as we continue to push ourselves forward with love and dedication for each other and the team.”

Interested in following the Charrelles team closer or joining the team for their 2025-2026 season? Follow @CCharrelles on Instagram for season updates and future tryout information!

+2