FREMONT, Neb. – Repeated excellence has been a theme in 2026 for Concordia University, Nebraska Competitive Dance. The Bulldogs earned a runner-up placement at the Midland Invite on Saturday (Feb. 21) while landing right near their season average. Concordia came away with an 87.79 and defeated three conference rivals, as well as a perennially strong nonconference foe in Viterbo University (Wis.).
Head Coach Mandi Maser’s squad has placed third or better in six of seven invitationals this 2026 season. Two championships were won the weekend of Feb. 6-7.
“We stayed right in the scoring range we’ve consistently hit, showing just how steady and prepared this team is,” Maser said. “The performance today had power, precision and the kind of energy that sets the tone for what’s ahead. Every section was attacked with confidence, and the focus never wavered. What stands out just as much as the score is the team dynamic. The connection between the dancers was undeniable with clean transitions, unified movement quality and genuine trust in one another.”
Only host and defending national champion Midland (95.17) finished above the Bulldogs on Saturday. Meanwhile, Concordia placed in front of Viterbo (84.29), Briar Cliff (77.79), College of Saint Mary (76.92), York (71.0) and Hastings (69.83).
The Bulldog competition roster featured 10 athletes. Junior Kaylee Powell seamlessly jumped into action while sophomore Bianca Romshek competed in both cheer and dance at the Midland Invite. Seniors Taylor Larsen and Elise O’Neill have served as captains throughout this season.
Added Maser, “This is exactly the momentum we want heading into the conference championship. Strong, consistent, hungry and connected. Let’s carry this energy forward and level up. The best is still ahead!”
Midland Invite Competition Roster
· Hanna Bitner (Valentine, Neb.)
· Brynley Cooper (Lincoln, Neb.)
· Sienna Kelly (Lincoln, Neb.)
· Taylor Larsen (Ravenna, Neb.)
· Elise O’Neill (North Platte, Neb.)
· Cameron Ottersberg (Pawnee City, Neb.)
· Kaylee Powell (Central City, Neb.)
· Bianca Romshek (Bellwood, Neb.)
· Addison Sample (Pleasant Dale, Neb.)
· Lana Tillman (Battle Creek, Neb.)
2026 Competitions
Jan. 21 – Def. CSM in dual (83.66)
Jan. 24 – Placed 3rd/8 (85.21) at Dordt Invite
Jan. 30 – Placed 3rd/9 (87.7) at KWU Classic
Feb. 6 – Placed 1st/14 (87.33) at York Crown Classic
Feb. 7 – Placed 1st/8 (93.33) at Concordia Invite
Feb. 13 – Placed 5th/10 (87.70) at Northwestern Invite (Day 1)
Feb. 14 – Placed 3rd/9 (87.87) at Northwestern Invite (Day 2)
Feb. 21 – Placed 2nd/7 (87.79) at Midland Invite
The Concordia Cheer & Dance teams will have next week off from competition as they prepare to compete at the conference championships. The 2026 GPAC Championships will be staged at Northwestern with cheer on March 6 and dance on March 7. Last season, the Bulldogs placed fourth in both cheer and dance.