J’ettes head to IHSA finals this weekend
By Brooklyn Walker
Photos by Mark Tissiere
The Jacksonville J’ettes Dance Team has proven time and time again that dedication, talent and teamwork lead to extraordinary success.
Under the leadership of head coach Tiffany Hickox and Sarah Van Aken, this award-winning program has continually set the bar high in competitive dance, and 2025 is shaping up to be another standout year for the squad.
On January 25, the J’ettes, led by their dynamic captains and passionate coaching staff, competed with their powerful performance of “Purple Rain” at the 1A Sectionals. With 82 teams from five different sectionals, it was a highly competitive day, but the J’ettes rose to the occasion, securing a spot in the top six of their group.
That achievement now places them among the 30 teams that will compete at the IHSA finals in Bloomington this weekend, January 31-February 1, at Grossinger Motors Arena. The excitement is palpable, and the J’ettes are ready to take on the best of the best.
A Legacy of Triumph
The journey to success for the J’ettes has been nothing short of remarkable. They made history in 2023 when they won the Illinois High School Association 1A Competitive Dance Championship, marking their first-ever state title since the IHSA began the state dance series in 2013. It was a monumental achievement, one that solidified their place among the elite dance teams in the state. In 2024, they earned a back-to-back 1A IHSA Championship, bringing home the top spot a second year in a row. Of note, the J’ettes did not start attending IHSA competition until 2018, and since then, they have made the top 12 each year.
Still, the J’ettes’ story is one of perseverance and growth. Their journey began in 2018 when they made their debut at IHSA, winning their sectional and placing 5th in the state. From there, the J’ettes only continued to climb. In 2019, they returned to the state competition, placing 7th, and in 2020, they once again won their sectional, earning an impressive 4th place finish at state.
The 2021 season was a challenging one for all, as COVID-19 forced the competition to go virtual. Despite the unique circumstances, the J’ettes persevered and placed 15th. But true to their spirit, they bounced back in 2022, winning their sectional yet again and finishing 4th in state.
Looking Ahead
As the J’ettes prepare for the IHSA finals this weekend, their focus and determination remain unwavering. With the leadership of coach Tiffany Hickox and the talent of each dancer, the team is poised to continue their legacy of excellence.
“Excellence is the standard we work toward every year. The sport of dance is very subjective. The judges may not agree with our theme, choreography, skills or concept. However, the girls and I believe as long as we put it all on the floor and walk off proud of ourselves … we are winners regardless,” states J’ettes Coach Hickox.
The Jacksonville J’ettes’ journey is a testament to the power of teamwork, resilience and passion. From their first sectional win to their historic state title and beyond, this team continues to inspire not only their school and community but also the entire state of Illinois. The best is yet to come — let’s cheer them on as they aim for another championship!
