Members of the Deep South Show Troupe from Murkerson’s Dance Academy and Gymnastics/Cheer Gym participated recently at the Platinum National Dance Competition in Macon, Georgia.

Competing in all genres of dance, these 21 young ladies showed what they were made of. Out of the 8 dances they took to Macon, the team brought home six gold medals, two platinum medals, and four first-place trophies for their individual categories. Also competing in the overall Junior Division, the dancers took top honors placing 5th, 3rd, and 2nd overall for the day. The senior group was awarded a special decoration for “Clean Choreography” by the judges.

“I think I am more proud of that—it is a big deal,” said their coach, Lea Hawkins.

Sarah Oliver, who is currently student at Georgia State University, joined her former Deep South Team to compete a solo and was awarded a Gold Medal as well as 5th place overall. Sarah has actively been a member of the Georgia State Dance Ensemble, and has recently made their Coed Competitive Cheerleading Squad as well as the Pantherette Dance Team.

“We are very proud of Sarah and her accomplishments. She has represented Deep South well,” said  Melynda Murkerson, owner and coach of Murkerson’s Dance Academy.

The Deep South Dancers also competed at the National Level in Panama City Beach, Fla., in June. Dancers attending there were Abigail Anderson, Annie Bridges, Mel Brodrey, Carley Brogdon, Kayte Clinkscales, Kaylee Dallas, Madeline Gainous, Jillian Hawkins, Kennedy Jester, Emily Grace Jones, Dalyah Minor, Takahri Murphy, Jessie Oliver, Rachel Oliver, Emily Perkins, Kasey Phillips, Sydney Thompson, Kate Vann, Mackenzie Vickers and Haylie Wilkinson.