Creston, IA—Earlier this week, three Southwest Valley High School seniors—Sophie Freshour, Kya Newton, and Kyra Simmons—committed to the Southwestern Community College dance program for the 2024-25 collegiate season.

The three student-athletes are all currently members of the Southwest Valley High School dance team, recently receiving a Division 1 rating at the Iowa State Dance & Drill Team Association’s state competition in Des Moines for the second consecutive year.

Freshour, daughter of Cassie and Dereck Freshour of Villisca, is a lifetime studio dancer. She has competed in dance for seven years and been a high school dance team member for two years. Freshour earned a letter from the National Honor Society for Dance Arts (NHSDA). In addition to dance, Freshour has been recognized on the high school honor roll.

Newton, daughter of Kyle Dasher of Villisca, was named the 2022-23 Spotlight School of Dance dancer of the year; she is the 2022-23 NHSDA chapter president; and is a two-year high school dance team member.

Simmons, daughter of Christapher and Casey Simmons of Villisca, has been a studio dancer for a number of years and a two-year member of high school dance.
Paige Russo, head coach of the Southwestern dance team, said she is extremely excited for all this trio will bring to the team.

“These girls’ history and dedication to dance will be a tremendous asset to our team,” Russo said. “I can’t wait for them to display their talents on the college dance floor next fall.”