SEWARD, Neb. – The 2026 competition season is officially underway for Concordia University, Nebraska Competitive Dance. The Bulldogs started strong on Wednesday (Jan. 21) while emerging with a dual win following a performance that unfolded at halftime of the women’s basketball game. Captained by seniors Taylor Larsen and Elise O’Neill, Concordia earned a score of 83.6. Meanwhile, visiting College of Saint Mary was credited with a score of 67.1.
Head Coach Mandi Maser is in her 10th season leading Bulldog Dance. Maser and company believe this is the start of a potentially special journey. To kick off the new campaign, Concordia already showed it could overcome adversity.
“Our team showed a lot of determination and adaptability in our first competition,” Maser said. “It’s a good foundation to build on, and we’re motivated to keep pushing forward and improving each time we step on the floor.”
Concordia competition roster vs. CSM
· Hanna Bitner (Valentine, Neb.)
· Alexis Carlen (Staunton, Ill.)
· Sienna Kelly (Lincoln, Neb.)
· Taylor Larsen (Ravenna, Neb.)
· Elise O’Neill (North Platte, Neb.)
· Cameron Ottersberg (Pawnee City, Neb.)
· Bianca Romshek (Bellwood, Neb.)
· Addison Sample (Pleasant Dale, Neb.)
· Lana Tillman (Battle Creek, Neb.)
· Crace Weber (Sidney, Neb.)
Of the 10 Concordia athletes who took the floor on Wednesday evening, five were returners from last season’s GPAC Championships roster. The Bulldogs competed without two dancers they hope to see soon back in action. Larsen is a two-time NAIA All-American and one of five returning GPAC All-Conference athletes from last season. The others are senior Elise O’Neill, juniors Hanna Bitner and Kaylee Powell and sophomore Bianca Romshek. Late changes were made to Wednesday’s routine as the Bulldogs adapted on the fly.
The team’s initial score of 83.6 is greater than the team’s 2025 season average of 82.27, which ranked eighth best in the NAIA. Concordia hopes to improve upon its fourth place GPAC finish in 2025.
The first invite of the 2026 competition season will take place on Saturday when the Bulldogs showcase their talents at the Dordt Invitational. The competition will include cheer as well and is scheduled to get underway at 11 a.m. CT in Sioux Center, Iowa. The event can be viewed live online via the GPAC Network.