HALF-SEASON PERFORMANCE TEAMS

Short-Season Training That Builds Skills and Confidence

Dakota Spirit’s Half-Season Performance Teams are a great mid-year option for athletes who want to explore cheer in a shorter, more flexible format. Starting in January, athletes learn essential skills, build confidence with their teammates, and perform at select events—all within a friendly, supportive environment that fits easily into busy schedules.

Program Overview

Our Half-Season Performance Teams offer a shorter commitment for athletes who want to cheer later in the year or balance other activities. Running from early January through early April, these performance-style teams are the perfect way to dip your toes into cheerleading without the rigorous commitment of a full year. Our first practice is January 11, 2026.

Condensed January–April season for athletes ages 5 to 12 years.

Weekly practices that teach core motions, jumps, and stunts

Performances at key Dakota Spirit events without a full-year commitment

A Christ-centered, family-first atmosphere in a flexible format

Dakota Spirit Half-Season athletes performing at a competition.

Find the Half-Season Performance Team That Fits Your Athlete

Each team is designed to match age, ability, and experience—so every athlete can shine.

Team NameLevelAgesPractice DayTime
FierceHalf-Season Performance4-7 yearsSaturday10-11:15 am
InfernoHalf-Season Performance8-12 yearsSaturday10-11:15 am
A half season dakota spirit athlete performing at the Sanford Pentagon.

Season Information

Season Duration: Jan. 2026 – April 2026
Registration Opens: Nov. 2025
Regular Season Practice: Once a week starting Jan. 10, 2026
Performances: 3 Performances

  • Valentine’s Classic - Sun., Feb. 1, 2026 | Sanford Pentagon

  • Halftime Performance - Sat., Feb. 28, 2026 | Sanford Pentagon

  • Spiritfest - Thurs., April 9, 2026 | Sanford Pentagon

Tuition & Fees

Dakota Spirit works diligently to keep the sport of cheerleading accessible. This is done in many ways. We understand that you will want clarity about the financial commitment involved and have provided details about the costs accordingly. If you have concerns about costs, please reach out.

Tuition or FeeCostDue Date
Registration$75/yearDue at time of registration.
Full Tuition$250/yearDue at time of registration.

Practice & Attendance

Half-Season is all about getting a feel for cheer and the importance of having fun, making friendships. Although attendance is very important for a successful season, we understand that illnesses and unexpected circumstances may arise. In these situations, please email your coaches and/or the office to let us know.

Dakota Spirit athletes sitting and observing during a practice.

Season Schedule

Half-Season Performance Teams practice once per week from January to April.

Practice Uniform

Athletes must wear the designated Dakota Spirit practice tank paired with black shorts or leggings to every practice. Jewelry of any kind is not permitted for safety reasons.

Absence Policy

To help maintain team consistency, families are encouraged to schedule vacations during school breaks when possible.

We understand that unexpected situations—such as injury, illness, or family emergencies—may arise. When they do, we will work with families to find the best solution. Please communicate any potential conflicts as early as possible so we can adjust accordingly.

Gym Closures

Wondering when the gym will be closed? Visit our Gym Closures page for a full list of holiday breaks and planned downtime—perfect for family trips or much-needed rest days.

Communication & Support

Have a question or need help finding the right information? We’re here to make it easy. Whether you’re looking for guidance on billing, registration, classes, tumbling, team details, or program-related questions, our staff is always just a message away. Connect directly with the director or coordinator who can best assist you — and we’ll make sure you get the answers you need quickly.

Billing/Registration

Office Director
Lesley Good
lesleygoodds@gmail.com

Office Contact
info@dakotaspirit.com
605-373-0414

Team Info, Practices & Coaches

Email info@dakotaspirit.com for coach contact details.

Classes & Lessons

Tumbling Director
Triana McCloud
triana.mccloud@dakotaspirit.com

Gym Leadership

Program Director
Joanna Naatjes
joanna.naatjes@dakotaspirit.com

Gym Owner
Robin Fritsch
robin.fritsch@dakotaspirit.com

Screenshot of the Dakota Spirit Go Motion platform.

GoMotion Account Requirement

All participating families are required to have a GoMotion account. This will be used as the primary registration and billing system. All information should be kept up-to-date throughout the season.

Get Ready for the Season?

To keep the season running smoothly, families are encouraged to stay organized and connected. Make sure all required forms are completed, your GoMotion account is up to date, and you’ve joined your team’s BAND group for updates.

You’ll also receive reminders for uniform orders and volunteer sign-ups throughout the season. Customize your BAND notifications, sync your calendar, and don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to other families—our community thrives on teamwork and communication.

Above all, be early, be gracious, and be flexible as we work together to make this a fun and rewarding season for every athlete.

Checklist

Don’t worry — we’ll guide you through each step.

Best Practices for a Great Season:

  • Customize your BAND app notifications and alerts.

  • Use your full name and a clear profile photo in BAND.

  • Subscribe and sync to program and team calendars in BAND.

  • Review your GoMotion account for accuracy.

  • Introduce yourself to fellow parents and athletes.

  • Be early, be positive, and be flexible!

  • Respond promptly to polls and surveys.

Dakota Spirit athletes looking at each other during a studio photoshoot.

More Than Cheer. It’s Character.

Dakota Spirit’s mission is to promote the physical, mental, and Christian development of youth through cheerleading. Our Christ-centered culture sets the foundation for teamwork, humility, and confidence on and off the mat.

Don’t Miss Your Chance to Join a Half-Season Performance Team!

Build your skills, grow your spirit, and get ready to shine on the mat. Secure your spot for the season today!