BY JAMIE HAZEL
Sports Editor
The Knights Dance Team opened 2026 by making history. On January 3 and 4, the girls had a busy weekend filled with performances, including their jazz routine which secured first place at the annual Ramapo College Dance Team Invitational.
Every winter, The Ramapo College Dance Team hosts an annual invitational dance competition. On January 4, the girls performed their jazz and hip-hop dances, and both placed with jazz winning first place. “It was a really special moment especially since it was our first time ever winning. It was such a good feeling for everyone and such a proud moment,” said senior captain Gabriella Iacobelli, who performed in both routines.
For months, the team stayed after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays to perfect this dance, and they successfully did. “The most rewarding part is seeing that all of our hard work paid off,” said Iacobelli. “Whether that’s getting in the top five at our competitions or just watching a video of the dance and seeing the progress it’s made.”
The award-winning dance contained lifts, emotion, and outstanding talent. Select skilled dancers got opportunities to step away from the group to stand out. “When me and jessie separate from the group, and we turn together is definitely a highlight for me,” said senior captain Amalia Schianodicola. “We’ve been dancing together since we were little and I’m grateful to have had special part with her!”
The hip-hop team ranked fifth. “My favorite part about the hip hop dance is being able to perform with my friends and show all of our hard work!” said senior Bridget Harford. “I love getting to interact with my teammates throughout the dance with smiles and all kinds of facial expressions, which boosts our performance quality!”
On January 3, the girls attended the Northeast Dance Team Showcase hosted by Rutgers University. It provided a great opportunity to perform and perfect these two dances the day prior to their big win.
At the Winter Pep Rally on December 23, the girls performed these same dances in front of the entire school. “Being able to perform at the pep rally reminded me why I love to dance with my team, making it a memorable experience, “explained Sienna Wong. “I think it helped to get our nerves out and gave us an extra chance to perform in front of an audience before being judged!”
The team will look to keep succeeding as they head into their second competition of the season at Hillsborough High School on January 25. “I think this win will motivate our team to keep working hard and pushing to do better because the win proved we are capable,” said Iacobelli.
Posted on January 14, 2026
Photos by Emma Heagan Kaylee Weingarten
Knight Life 