「The Power of Unstoppable Spirit」

The Alma College Dance Team（ADT): Ten Years, Eleven Championships. Always striving to become the best version of ourselves.

The Alma College Dance Team has dominated the national stage with 11 championships in a decade.

In 2025, LOVEVOOK had the honor of supporting them from practice sessions all the way to their triumphant victory. Being part of their journey has given us a unique insight into their incredible story, which resonates deeply with our brand's values.

We had the opportunity to talk with their head coach, Tracy, to bring their inspiring journey to light. We hope their story encourages more young women to chase after a vibrant and fulfilling life.

「A Conversation with Tracy, the Head Coach of Alma College Dance Team」

LOOKVOOK：
Hi Tracy, as the head coach of the Alma College Dance Team, you've led your team to eleven national championships over the past decade. That’s an incredible achievement! How did it all begin for you and the team?

Tracy：
Back in 2016, our journey began with just five dancers and a brand new coach. Nobody knew who we were, and we weren't the obvious choice for dancers aspiring to compete beyond high school. We had no funding and little external support, spending countless nights in the studio, sometimes hours on just one move. But I knew we were building more than just a competitive team; we were creating something we could truly be proud of.

LOOKVOOK：
Sometimes failure can teach us more than success ever could. How do you and the team approach setbacks or failures?

Tracy：
Our first venture into the NDA College Nationals in 2018 was unforgettable. Despite our team's all-out effort throughout the season, we didn't make it to the finals. It was a defining moment, presenting us with a choice: stay where we were or rise to the occasion and emerge stronger than before.

We chose to return to our daily training with even greater determination, breaking down every movement and continually refining our technique. On a mental level, we incorporated psychological strategies to build resilience through setbacks and push beyond our limits in the face of challenges. As a result, ADT not only improved in performance but also developed a steely determination and unwavering belief in ourselves.

I firmly believe that every setback is an opportunity for growth. When we encounter these challenges, they can become pivotal moments. You're faced with two options: accept the status quo or rise to greater heights.

LOOKVOOK：
What transformed the Alma College Dance Team from a group that struggled to attract members into a powerhouse that clinched eleven national championships in a decade? What fueled your journey to achieve such remarkable success?

Tracy：
We started with just five members, and now we've grown into a team of nearly fifty. Over the past decade, winning eleven national titles and hearing our name called as champions on that stage has been an incredible journey.

I believe excellence isn't just our goal in competitions; it's the standard we maintain in every aspect of our lives. It's not just about what we do on the dance floor. It's how we step into the practice room and how we treat each other, always bringing positive energy into every interaction. This philosophy is what sets ADT apart. Everything we do is built on relentless passion and firm belief. We don't wait for motivation; we generate it ourselves by choosing excellence in every detail. We know that these choices are what make champions.

LOOKVOOK：
We understand that defending a championship, year after year, is a particularly challenging feat. What has enabled you and your team to achieve such an incredible series of accomplishments?

Tracy：
From my perspective as the head coach, our approach is not to let championships define us. Each season is a fresh start, and we believe that no one is entitled to success because of past achievements. From the very first day, our dancers adopt this mindset. We don't train with the sole aim of defending a title or worrying about other teams. Instead, we focus on becoming better versions of ourselves and ensuring that we're proud of our performance on stage, no matter the outcome. It's about personal growth, challenging our limits, and constantly redefining what ADT can achieve, rather than simply replicating past successes.

LOOKVOOK：
I sense that ADT embodies a special kind of spirit that distinguishes it from other teams. What do you think that unique quality is?

Tracy：
We're more than just teammates; we're family. We share in each other's laughter and tears. The love we have for one another is real and heartfelt, and you can feel it in every practice, every interaction, and every time they hit the stage. When some of our members go through tough times, everyone knows when to offer encouragement and a hug, letting them know they're not alone. Even after graduation, many continue to give selflessly to this team. It's not just a team; it's a home.

LOOKVOOK：
You always appear so optimistic and resilient in front of the team, but everyone has their moments of vulnerability. Have you ever found yourself in tears when you were alone?

Tracy：
Not often, but it has happened. There was one night after an especially tough practice leading up to nationals when the team was really struggling, and the vibe was tense. I started doubting myself. Was I asking too much of them? Was I letting them down? At the way home, I kept replaying the footage from that day’s training, questioning if all the struggles were worth it. But in that quiet moment, I also felt a sense of purpose. I'm doing this not for the trophies, but for them. For every dancer who walks through our doors, for every dream that’s yet to be realized. No matter what obstacles we face, the pride and sense of achievement we deserve are unshakeable. These girls are my drive.

LOOKVOOK：
Throughout our conversation, it's been evident how much passion and dedication you have for both your work and these remarkable girls. What message would you like to share with them at this moment?

Tracy：
The Alma College Dance Team has been filled with courage, resilience, and passion. Apart from my family, creating the Alma College Dance Team is my greatest source of pride. I attribute much of our success to the students who helped build this legacy; it is their involvement that has elevated this program. To every dancer who has been part of this journey—whether you were one of the original five, one of the current fifty, or an ADT alum—you will always be an integral part of this family.

LOOKVOOK：
Our mission has always been to inspire young girls to courageously seek vibrant and fulfilling lives. We hope that your story serves as a beacon of motivation for many. What message would you like to convey to the girls reading about your journey at this moment?

Tracy：
Success isn’t reserved for the ones who have it all figured out from the start. It’s built by those who are willing to show up, work hard, believe in themselves even when it’s difficult, and surround themselves with people who lift them higher. Your journey will not always be linear, but with perseverance, community, and a heart full of purpose, you will find your way.

LOOKVOOK：
At LOVEVOOK, we draw inspiration from colors for our bag designs. In closing, if you were to choose a color that best represents the Alma College Dance Team, which color would it be and why?

Tracy：
Gold – it embodies the excellence and high standards we strive for.

Black – it symbolizes the strength, focus, and 'all-in' mindset that defines us.

Maroon – it represents the roots and tradition of Alma College.

LOOKVOOK：
We look forward to the possibility of designing a custom bag for the Alma College Dance Team one day. Thank you, Tracy, for taking the time to speak with us, and congratulations once again to ADT on their championship victory.

Learn More about the ADT STYLE BACKPACK>>

(* Photos by @mo.marie.photography)