The Bishop Tonnos Catholic Secondary School Dance and Cheer Teams are celebrating an outstanding 2026 season, bringing home multiple championship banners and showcasing exceptional student leadership, talent and school spirit throughout the year.
Led by coaches Alyssa Berardocco and Amelia Licatalosi, the Bishop Tonnos Dance Team has continued to build on years of success, placing within the top three teams at every competition attended this season. Over the past four years, the coaches have worked closely with students to develop a strong and distinguished program rooted in teamwork, creativity and leadership.
A key focus of the program is student leadership, with captains Ava Rodrigues and Abigail MacDonald playing an important role in choreographing routines, mentoring teammates and helping guide the team throughout the season.
"Being part of the BT Dance Team has shaped who I am both on and off the stage," said Ava Rodrigues, a Grade 12 student. "It's more than just performing; it's about discipline, friendship and growth. Being captain taught me how to lead with patience and confidence, and those are lessons I'll carry with me long after this journey ends."
This season also marked the continued growth of the newly established BT Competitive Cheer Team, under the direction of Julie Van Alstine. What began as a small stunt group supporting sideline cheers quickly evolved into a full 16-student competitive cheer team.
"This season has meant so much more than the results," said Julie Van Alstine. "This group took a chance on something new and turned it into something truly special. The way they supported each other, grew together, and rose to every challenge has been incredible to watch. I'm beyond proud of them, and this really is just the beginning."
OFSAA Regional and Provincial Success
At the OFSAA Regional competition, Bishop Tonnos earned two banners in:
- Performance Cheer & Dance Hip Hop
- Senior High School Non-Tumble
The team continued its success at the OFSAA Trillium Cup Provincial competition, capturing first place in all three divisions entered:
- Performance Cheer & Dance Hip Hop
- Performance Cheer & Dance Jazz
- Senior High School Non-Tumble
Hamilton's Best Dance Crew
On March 10, the Bishop Tonnos Dance Team competed at Hamilton's Best Dance Crew hosted at Glendale Secondary School, entering seven routines, including student-choreographed performances.
"We entered seven routines in the competition, including four small groups, one large group, and two lines of 23 dancers," said Amelia Licatalosi. "Many of our routines were student choreographed. The Dance Team has provided student captains, Ava Rodrigues and Abigail MacDonald, with the opportunity to take on strong leadership roles. They did an incredible job choreographing the dances and leading the team this year."
The team was named Hamilton's Best Secondary Elite Dance Crew Overall Winner 2026, placing first out of 19 competing schools and earning recognition for technical excellence and multiple overall awards.
"Serving as captain and being part of this team has been such a special experience for me," said Abigail MacDonald, a Grade 12 student. "A major goal for us was to create a positive culture where everyone felt valued and supported. We became a dance family made up of a group of talented students at Bishop Tonnos who had a successful season and a ton of fun!"
Strive Dance Challenge
On April 28, the team competed at the Strive Dance Challenge at Mohawk College, placing among the top two teams in a competition featuring 20 schools from across the GTA.
The team received multiple overall awards, including Best Overall Choreography for their Lyrical Line routine choreographed by Ava Rodrigues. Their Hip Hop Line was also the top-scoring routine of the session, while the Jazz large group, choreographed by Abigail MacDonald, was recognized for outstanding attack and technique.
"We are incredibly proud of this team and all they have accomplished this year," said Alyssa Berardocco. "Their dedication, teamwork and commitment to excellence have truly set them apart and made our school community proud."
For more information
90 Mulberry Street
Hamilton Ontario
Canada L8N 3R9
www.hwcdsb.ca
