PERFORMANCE TEAMS
Where Young Performers Grow Skills and Shine Brightly
Dakota Spirit’s Performance League offers a joyful, low-pressure path into cheer for athletes who love to be on stage. With once-a-week practices and several performances throughout the season, athletes grow their confidence, timing, and showmanship in a supportive, faith-centered environment. This flexible, non-competitive program is perfect for beginners and families who want a meaningful cheer experience without the demands of competition.
Program Overview
Our Performance Teams is perfect for athletes who love to be on stage and want a fun, low-pressure introduction to cheer. These non-competitive teams practice once a week and perform at 5–6 events throughout the season, giving athletes lots of chances to perform without the added stress of scoring. It’s an ideal fit for beginners, younger athletes, or busy families looking for a flexible way to experience cheer.
Once-a-week practices with energetic, encouraging coaches
5–6 performances at Dakota Spirit events and community showcases
No scores or rankings—just performance, fun, and growth
A Christ-centered, family-first environment
Find the Performance Team That Fits Your Athlete
Each team is designed to match age, ability, and experience—so every athlete can shine.
| Team Name | Level | Ages | Practice Day | Practice Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embers | Tiny - Performance | 3-5 years | Monday | 4 - 4:45 pm |
| Dazzle | Tiny - Performance | 3-5 years | Monday | 4 - 4:45 pm |
| Firecrackers | Mini - Performance | 6-9 years | Wednesday | 6:15 - 7:15 pm |
Performance Teams Season Information
Season Duration: Sept. 2026 – April 2027
Registration Opens: June 1, 2026
Parent/Athlete Meeting: Summer 2026
Open Houses: June 10, July 8, Aug. 5, 2026 from 6-8 pm
Season Practice: Once a week starting Sept. 2026
Performances: 8 total
5-6 Competitions
1 Halftime performance
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
Performance team costs—including tuition, competition fees, choreography, bootcamps, and music—are evenly spread over 8 months for a consistent monthly payment.
Tuition charges appear in your GoMotion account on the 1st of each month, with your selected payment method automatically charged on the 10th. Tuition covers weekly training and facility access, and registration includes your athlete’s first set of practice gear.
Additional Fees
Additional fees not included in tuition: a $175 uniform fee, comp bow, and cheer shoes for competitions.
| Tuition or Fee | Cost | Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| Registration | $100/year | First day of the season |
| Monthly Tuition | $80/month | 10th of the month |
| Full Tuition | $560/year | September 1 |
| Uniform | $175 | Aug. 1 |
Practice Gear and Uniform sizing will be on TBD, or by appointment.
Practice & Attendance
Consistent participation is essential to the success of every Dakota Spirit team. All practices are encouraged, and athletes are expected to arrive prepared, focused, and in the proper practice uniform. Missing practices may impact an athlete’s role or choreography within the routine.
Season Schedules
Fall/Winter: During the competitive season, athletes attend one weekly team practice and one weekly tumbling class (included in tuition). Tumbling is required, but flexible make-up options are available for occasional conflicts.
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. Missing practices may impact an athlete’s role or choreography within the routine.
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
Staying informed is essential to a smooth season. Parents are responsible for keeping up with all team and gym updates, so please check BAND, GoMotion, and your email regularly — we use all three throughout the year to share important information. If you ever have an urgent question or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out directly. We’re here to help every step of the way!
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
Athlete Well-Being
Program Director
Joanna Naatjes
joanna.naatjes@dakotaspirit.com
Gym Owner
Robin Fritsch
robin.fritsch@dakotaspirit.com
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, hotel bookings, volunteer sign-ups, and USASF membership steps throughout the year. 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.
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Complete & submit forms:
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.
Book travel and hotel accommodations early.
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 Performance Team!
Build your skills, grow your spirit, and get ready to shine on the mat. Secure your spot on a Performance team today!