See all posts in the Kirk’s Captain Corner series

(Kirk’s Captain Corner is a regular feature that will allow Carver County residents to get to know the student-leaders of the various teams in our high schools. Today, we feature senior Cali Odle, Co-Captain of the Chaska Hawks Girls Dance Team.)

How long have you been dancing competitively? Did you dance for a studio when you were younger?

I started dancing when I was 3 years old in a rec program at The Dance Warehouse. At age 5, I started dancing on a competitive team and basically have been ever since. I now dance on a competitive team at Summit Dance Shoppe and have been for three years. Studio has been a great way for me to still compete in that environment while improving my skills and technique. I have been dancing on the varsity Chaska Dance team since my freshman year.

For those that aren’t familiar with competitive dancing, what are the different competitions at the high school level, and which is your favorite?

At the high school level there are two types of dance that teams compete in. One is jazz and one is kick. The CHSDT competes in both of these at conference meets and at invites. My favorite to compete in would have to be jazz. I love the technicality and creativity aspect of this style and how you can really express your emotions while you’re dancing.

What has been your best memory with the Chaska program?

My best memory would have to be going to state my sophomore year in 2023. We placed third in our section for both jazz and kick, which qualified us to go to state. The state experience is really like no other. The crowd at the Target Center is amazing, and being able to show the state of Minnesota your dances is really something special.

I understand you competed in the Miss Dance Team competition. What was that like?

Competing in the Miss Dance Team competition was such an amazing experience. I performed a solo that I choreographed myself and placed 9th out of 58 dancers. I loved being able to showcase what I am so passionate about and also have the opportunity to watch other dancers as well. Minnesota has so many talented and amazing dancers, I was just excited be a part of it. It was also such a cool feeling being able to walk on the floor with so much support from everyone.

What are your plans for next year?  Will you continue to stay involved in dance?

This is a tough one to answer…I am hoping to stay involved in dance and currently figuring all of that out.

What does it mean to you to be a team captain?

Being a team captain to me means being a good leader and leading by example, inspiring and encouraging your teammates, and being hard working. These qualities are something I strive for both on the dance floor and throughout the year. Being a captain also means carrying on your team’s legacy from the past. I love being able to carry on traditions and the legacy of the Chaska Dance Team and really elevate the program every year.