St. Ambrose claimed the inaugural American Midwest Conference (AMC) Competitive Dance Championship hosted by Columbia College in the Arena of Southwell Complex in Columbia, Mo., Friday.

It quickly became a two-team race for the conference title. SAU posted a preliminary-round score of 87.57 while Viterbo earned an 86.23. Both teams improved later in the afternoon. 

St. Ambrose was rewarded with the top score of the event, earning a 91.27 in the finals for a total score of 90.34. SAU did not receive a point deduction in either round. Viterbo closed with a 90.00 to finish with an 89.06.

The total score is calculated by adding 25 percent of the preliminary score with 75 percent of the final score.

SAU Dance Team members were Maddy Barnes, Lilly Bonnet, Lexi Crook, Shea Denahy, Sara Gundacker, Grace Harms, Josie Kaffenberger, Karli Langley, Sydnie Offermann, Emma Schoonover, Grace Sheldon and Leah Zeimet. Alternates were Karsyn Kuffler, Josephine Lai and Evie Miller.

Missouri Baptist (75.13) took third. Columbia, St. Francis (Ill.), Campbellsville, William Woods and Cumberlands rounded out the eight-team event.

St. Ambrose will now focus on the NAIA Championships where the Bees will look to win a third consecutive National Title. The NAIA Championships are scheduled for Mar. 28-29 at the George Gervin GameAbove Center in Ypsilanti, Mich.