MINNEAPOLIS-For the fourth time in four years, the Class 1A high kick state championship trophy will be on display at Aitkin High School.
Aitkin won the championship Saturday at the Target Center by beating Bird Island-Lake Lillian-Olivia-Danube, Yellow Medicine East and Lac qui Parle Valley/Dawson-Boyd.
The kick title was Aitkin's ninth overall. In addition to the last four years, Aitkin also won in 2001, 2003, 2004, 2010, and 2012.
"They nailed it," Aitkin head coach Lisa Roth said of Saturday's kick routine. "They were just outstanding without a doubt."
Aitkin's Megan Host and Mya Conway made the all-tournament team.
ADVERTISEMENT
Roth said there was no pressure to repeat.
"It's about us dancing our best performance," she said, "and whatever happens, happens. We don't get all wrapped up in titles."
Roth, in her 11th season as Aitkin's head coach, and in her 22nd year in Aitkin, said working hard is one of the program's foundations.
"We've got a lot of rules, a lot of conditioning," she said. "A lot of kids go out for it because they can participate."
Crosby-Ironton finished seventh, just missing the finals.
"We had a dancer whose ankle gave out during a turn over halfway into the routine causing her to fall," C-I coach Amy Turk said. "She got right up and finished the routine but there was an 8-point deduction from the judges, which isn't what anyone wants in a close competitive atmosphere, but like gymnastics, you get one shot and no redos.
"Other than that, we performed very well with lots of high energy, and execution."
C-I had the opportunity to sing the national anthem to start tournament.
"We made lots of memories throughout the weekend," Turk said. "We all appreciate the support of our fans and community for a successful season."
ADVERTISEMENT
Class 1A High Kick
Final Standings
1-Aitkin, 2-BOLD, Olivia, 3-Yellow Medicine East, Granite Falls, 4-Lac qui Parle Valley/Dawson-Boyd, 5-Cannon Falls, 6-Frazee
