Sumter's Next Generation, presented by CCTC: National Grand Champion Pocalla Springs Elementary Steppers showcase joy, unity through stepping
At Pocalla Springs Elementary School, a team of spirited young Crocs are stepping their way to greatness.
Meet the Pocalla Springs Elementary School Steppers - PSE Steppers, if you will.
Though tiny in stature, these youngsters have become a powerhouse in the national world of stepping. In May 2024, the team became the only South Carolina step team to compete on a national stage at The House Party National Step Show hosted in Charlotte. And even better, they brought home the prestigious title of Grand Champion.
The school's step team was founded in 2019 by head coach Justin Wright and his mom and fellow Pocalla Elementary teacher Cynthia Jones-Wright, along with various staff who lend a helping hand and foot. The duo sought to give students an outlet - something Justin emphasized as a meaningful way to channel emotions, build discipline and create lasting bonds, much like he did in his own stepping days.
"I'm originally a dancer; I love to dance. So, my cousin asked me to try [stepping], and then I tried it, and I end up loving it. I realized how much of an escape it was for me, especially when I was feeling certain ways about things, and I love to perform," Justin shared. " [Stepping] gives the kids an outlet and something to do. Instead of just coming to school and going home, they have something to look forward to, like coming to practice, getting ready for competitions, putting on the costume and just having fun."
For second-graders Deandra Tindal and Natalia Roldan, third-graders Demoni Simmons and Jamieonna Shaw, fourth-grader Nyla Stukes and fifth-graders Nariah Martin and Jalaiya Billups, they couldn't agree more.
"When I come to step [practice], Coach [will say] 'If y'all have any anger, you better step it out,'" Nariah said happily.
As seven of the returning members from the 2023-24 season, each member brings their own flair to the group. They've been stepping together for nearly three years, and in that time have formed a bond that goes beyond friendship.
"I like stepping because we [can] express the sisterhood," Jalaiya said.
And it shows. Whether it's comforting each other before a big performance, cheering each other after a victory or merely holding hands on the way to practice, these girls are more than teammates; they're family. Which is what made their recent win in May much sweeter.
The national competition was a whirlwind for the team. Jalaiya described it best for the team as "stressful but exciting." The anticipation of waiting for their results was intense, but when they were announced as not only first place within the elementary co-ed division, but also as Grand Champions, beating stiff competition from 30 teams competing in elementary, middle and high school divisions from across the country, they couldn't contain their excitement.
"I felt really happy," the group said in near unison, their bright grins expressing what words couldn't.
"It makes me think I could do whatever I want," Demoni expressed about their win.
These young steppers aren't just performing - they're telling a story with every beat, expressing emotions that words alone can't. The mean mugs, fierceness and pure passion that pours into their performances can captivate any audience member - young and old. Whether it's stepping out their anger or dancing for joy, the Pocalla Steppers use their routines to express what's in their hearts.
With the drive and determination shown, there's no doubt these tiny but mighty steppers will continue to make big waves wherever they go.
Going into this next season, they have big hopes to compete and continue to make their city and classmates proud. With every step forward they take this season, their passion reminds us that no dream is too big when you put your heart - and your feet - into it.