The Highland Belles returned from the Contest of Champions National Drill Team and Dance Contest taking 1^st place in its division, as well as winning 3^rd place overall, its highest national ranking in Belles history.

“After many months of 6:45 a.m. practices and more than a thousand hours of painstaking preparations this school year, the Belles scored their absolute best they have ever scored at Nationals,” said Shannon Harty, director. “I’m proud of our team’s dedication and work ethic. Truly, this national achievement speaks to their commitment to excellence.”

In the Extra-Large Team Category division, the Belles ranked 1^st place overall and in the following categories: 

• National Champion Extra Large Team
• 1^st place XL Kick
• 1^st place XL Pom
• 1^st place XL Military
• 1^st place XL Jazz 

Across all team size divisions, the Belles also received:

• 3^rd place in Kick
• 4^th place in the Officer Competition for Belle Lieutenants
• 1^st in the XL Ensemble Category for the All-Americans
• 4^th place in all Ensembles 

Held in Orlando, Florida, the Contest of Champions Nationals featured outstanding teams from across the nation competing in a variety of dance categories.