The Francis Howell Varsity Golden Girls placed second in the large varsity hip hop category at the Universal Dance Association National Dance Team Championship Feb. 5-6 in Orlando, Fla. It was the highest a high school dance team from Missouri has placed in the competition since its inception in 1983. Howell also placed seventh in the large varsity jazz category.

The dance team also competed in the 5A Division at the Missouri State High School Activities Association Dance Team Championship on Feb. 26 and won first place and the title of state champs. The team also received High Point and first place for their two routines at Lindbergh in December. They went to Chicago in January and received second and third for their dances.

The team's coaches are Brooke Crider and Kimberly O'Brien.