Hi Steppers stepping high for 31 years

Dripping Springs High School’s Hi-Steppers have been showing their dancing talent for 31 years. The dancers were formed in the 1988-89 school year, and the dance team’s theme this year is “Living the dream with the 31st team.”

There is also another milestone that has been reached. Tracy Neef, the Hi-Steppers Director had been at it for 25 years.

“It has been a joy to watch this program grow and flourish since 1994, it is everything I hoped it could be when I first started teaching. I am so honored to have been a part of this outstanding group of young women for 25 years. They are exceptional students, amazing athletes, and they make me so proud with every performance,” Neef said.

The team, over the years, have won all sorts of honors. They have received American Dance Team/Drill Team National Titles, State Championships, Best in Class and numerous other awards. They have travelled all over the country and have performed for athletic games and at community events.

Seniority does have its privileges and the senior steppers have a few extra honors. They were the first dancers to perform in the new stadium. And one tradition that seniors cherish is painting their practice hats and wearing it at all practices throughout the year.

The Hi-Steppers not only work on their dance technique and performance, but also learn skills that will help them in life, no matter what career they choose. Skills such as the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and time management.

“Being a member of the Hi-Steppers has given me the opportunity to learn leadership skills, dance techniques and get to be part of a sisterhood with 46 girls that I will treasure forever,” senior Hi-Stepper and Four Year Member Maddie Zeman said. In learning these skills, they become as one, a family in the process of developing dance skills and reaching team goals.

The whole town supports the team and has for the last 31 years, which culminates at the end of the school year at the Spring Show. But until then, the talented girls and their performance can be caught at football games and pep rallies, which all of Dripping Springs can enjoy.

“The Booster Club works hard to ensure that we raise enough funds for the team to have the resources they need for the year. We are a group of dedicated parents supporting our daughters and their dedication to the team. We are fortunate to work alongside Tracy Neef and are excited to celebrate her 25th year as the Hi-Stepper Director,” President of Hi-Steppers Booster Club Mark Green said.

Congratulations to the dancers, instructors, parents and the Booster Club and here’s to the next 31 years.