The Dexter High School varsity dance team is taking its talent on the road to participate in the Universal Dance Association’s national competition at the Magic Kingdom in Orlando, Fla.

Eleven members from the Dexter Dance Team will compete against teams across the United States in jazz and pom-pom dance categories on Jan. 31 through Feb. 4.

The team qualified to attend the national competition after performing at the Universal Dance Association’s summer camp at Michigan State University.

“The team hopes to advance to the semi-finals with one of their dances. That is a goal they have set for themselves and they are hoping to attain that goal in Orlando," coach Erin Shaver said.

The girls attending the competition have worked hard on many additional fundraising events to be able to pay for the trip. They conducted a bottle drive, sold Yankee candles and Scrip cards, wrapped presents during Dexter’s Home for the Holidays festival, and contacted friends and family for individual donations.

Those who have yet to see the dance team in action or would like to see this year’s team perform should attend one of the DHS varsity boys’ basketball games.

To provide financial support for the dance team, or for more information about upcoming performances, contact Coach Shaver at erinshaver05@gmail.com.