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"We danced SO well, and our place doesn't really show it," said Paynesville danceline coach Becky Hoey. "In the two years that I have been coach, I can tell you this is definitely the best that we have ever danced."

Montevideo won the conference, with Cathedral second, and Laq qui Parle Valley third. "The top three teams consistently make it to state, and often place there," explained Hoey, "so it is a little frustrating to be stuck in a conference with them."

Melrose was fourth, Paynesville fifth, New London-Spicer sixth, and Albany seventh. "I was disappointed to be beaten by Melrose," said Hoey, "but I know that my girls did their best."

Hoey is impressed by the team's improvement this year, in virtually every meet. Last year, the Pirouettes finished last in the conference. She said the team plans to make their routine more difficult, which should help them improve their score.

The danceline will compete next at Farmington on Saturday, Feb. 2. Then they have sections at Montevideo on Saturday, Feb. 16. The top four teams advance to state. Last year, the Pirouettes finished fifth.