The Hamilton High School “Chargerettes” Dance Team opened its 2026-27 season with an impressive showing at the Badgerette Midwest Finals, earning the title of Large Varsity Runner-Up Champion. The annual competition took place in Elgin, Illinois on August 7 and featured high school dance teams from across the area. The accomplishment is particularly exciting for a young Hamilton team that enters the season without a single senior on its roster.
“This team has grown tremendously in a very short period of time,” said Hamilton Chargerettes Head Coach Mary Deeken. “Without seniors, we knew our younger athletes would need to step into leadership roles early. What we saw at Midwest was a group that competed with confidence, maturity and trust in one another. To achieve this level of success so early in our year is incredibly exciting.”
Hamilton took first place in both Hip-Hop and Jazz. They earned second place finishes in Competition Routine and Open Routine, earning enough combined success to finish second overall in the Large Varsity Division.
Hamilton also celebrated an exceptional individual performance by junior Korin Purifoy, who advanced to the Top Five Solo Icon Finals in both Dance and Pom from a field of more than 50 dancers. Purifoy ultimately finished fourth in Dance and also earned a third place in Pom.
“Korin is an incredible performer and competitor, and we love having the opportunity to celebrate her,” Deeken said. “Her accomplishments at Midwest reflect not only her talent, but the work and commitment she continues to put into her growth as a dancer.”
The team also credits choreographer and summer instructor Jade Mabini for playing an important role in the dancers’ development as well as coach Trish Cady for the significant time, energy and support she continues to dedicate to the program.
Hamilton’s success at the Midwest Finals builds upon a strong summer and provides momentum as the team begins preparations for its high school competition season. The team competes throughout the year while also supporting school and community events.