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 captain Sydney Scheetz of the Chaska 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 until my freshman year of high school. I enjoyed doing studio and gaining my fundamental skills of dance to prepare me for dance team. I have been dancing on the varsity Chaska Dance team since my freshman year.
What has been your best dance memory so far?
My best dance memory has to be going to state my freshman year in 2023. We placed third in both kick and jazz at sections, which qualified us for state. The whole experience was unforgettable — the crowd, the floor, and the energy of the weekend were surreal. As a freshman, it was amazing to see all of our hard work pay off and to be part of such a memorable moment.
Tell us about the Chaska program — and the camaraderie with your teammates?
Chaska is a program that truly sets itself apart. Our culture is built on trust, support and strong relationships, and that’s something that’s been intentionally passed down by seniors year after year. We’re lucky to have both a summer and fall season to prepare for our competitive winter season, which is where a lot of our team bonding happens. Through things like team sleepovers, pool parties and hangouts, we build genuine connections that translate into trust on the floor. One thing that’s really unique about Chaska is that everyone has a personalized nickname, whether we’re in practice, at competitions, or just together as a team. That’s how we refer to one another. It’s a small thing, but it reflects how close we are and how much we value every individual on the team.
What are your team’s goals for the season?
Our main goal this season is to stop dancing for outside expectations and focus on dancing for each other. We want to be deeply connected as a team, trust one another, and let that unity show every time we step on the floor. When we’re truly connected, the performance feels more Chaska, and that’s what we’re striving for.
Tell us about what happens behind-the-scenes before the team hits the floor — how do you prepare yourselves for each performance?
Before we hit the floor, preparation is everything. We have several team rituals, including a specific playlist we stretch to that features motivational songs passed down for over five years. We also focus on visualization through something we call “WIN,” where we play the music and each dancer does what they need, whether that’s running the dance or mentally preparing. Personally, I always take time to pray, both on my own and with teammates, which helps me stay grounded and grateful as we perform together.
What are your plans for next year? Will you continue to stay involved in dance?
Next year, I’ll be attending the University of St. Thomas to study Business Administration. While I don’t plan to dance competitively in college, I absolutely plan to stay involved by coming back to coach during the fall season. Chaska Dance has shaped me so much, and coaching feels like the best way to give back and continue the program’s legacy.
I’m a proud Tommie alum — congrats and enjoy your time there! What does it mean to you to be a team captain?
Being a team captain means being a servant leader and a steady presence for the team. To me, it’s not about the title, it’s about showing up every day with intention, energy and care for the people around me. A captain sets the tone, both on and off the floor, by encouraging trust, accountability and confidence within the team. It means pushing us to be our best while also making sure every dancer feels seen, supported and valued. Ultimately, being a captain is about honoring the legacy of the Chaska program and helping create an environment where everyone can grow, connect and succeed together.
