The Elon University dance team received their 2022 national championship rings this weekend — six months after winning the competition in April.
The Hip Hop Division 1 champions opened their rings as a team Oct. 1 before they were recognized with a ring ceremony at the first timeout of the first quarter during Elon’s football game against University of Richmond.
Senior Devyn Battaglia said getting the ring put her back in the mindset she experienced in April.
“Being a national champion has probably been one of the best experiences of my entire life,” Battaglia said. ”It really shows that hard work pays off and every hour of blood, sweat and tears that we have put into this.”
Battaglia also said having this experience with her team is one she won’t forget.
“It was the most rewarding feeling in the world to be on that stage with my teammates who are also my best friends and my family,” Battaglia said.
Like Battaglia, sophomore Juliette Baudoin said the moment she received her ring on Saturday, alongside her team, was unforgettable.
“Whenever we all opened up our boxes all at the same time, it was so emotional. We were all crying and it was so much happiness,” Baudoin said. “All of our hard work had just paid off and we were so excited to be sharing this special moment together.”
Five alumni who were on the team at the time of the nationals win came back this weekend to celebrate.
Battaglia said she looks forward to the team’s future.
“The sky is really the limit for us because this is a fairly new program compared to some of the other teams on campus,” Battaglia said.