Two Rochester student-athletes are taking their talents to the next level as Southeast Missouri State University commit Brynn Barnard and Saint Louis University commit Liliana “Lily” Marchioro officially signed to continue their dance careers at the Division I level.
Barnard will continue her career at SEMO, while Marchioro is headed to SLU after years of dedication both on and off the Rochester sidelines.
Throughout their four years at Rochester, both athletes became heavily involved in school athletics while also competing at a high level outside of school through Dance Creations Dance Studio. Barnard was a key member of the Rochester Rocket Poms team, while Marchioro represented Rochester on the cheer squad.
Balancing school sports with competitive dance was no easy task. Both athletes spent countless hours training, traveling, practicing, and performing while maintaining their commitments to Rochester athletics. Their ability to handle two demanding sports ultimately helped shape them into Division I athletes.
Both dancers spoke highly of the impact their coaches had on their journeys. Barnard credited Rocket Poms coach Kramer for helping her grow throughout her high school career, while Marchioro praised Rochester Cheer coach Kirsten Damhoff for the support and leadership she provided along the way.
They also shared appreciation for Dance Creations instructor Janet Cripe, who played a major role in their development over the years. Both athletes described Cripe as someone who constantly motivated and pushed them to improve while helping them chase their goals at the highest level.
Dance is one of the most competitive and demanding sports to master, especially at the Division I level. For Barnard and Marchioro, balancing multiple activities while excelling in both proved just how much dedication and discipline they possessed.
Now, both Rochester standouts will have the opportunity to continue their passion at the collegiate level while representing their schools on one of the biggest stages in college athletics.
Liliana Marchioro talks signing to dance at Saint Louis University
Brynn Barnard talks signing to dance at Southeast Missouri State University.
Coach Damhoff talks about the impact Liliana had on the Rochester Cheer Program.
Coach Kramer talks about Brynn and her impact on the Rochester Poms Team.