As a captain and a four year varsity member of the Pleasant Valley Platinum Dance Team, senior Josie Kaffenberger has demonstrated leadership, dedication and drive through all her accomplishments. Kaffenberger has pushed the team forward, making history by being the first dancer at Pleasant Valley to win not just one, but three State Solo championships.
As a soloist and captain, she has won a total of 8 state titles during her time on the team. In addition to the state titles, Kaffenberger has accomplished, she is also a three-time All American and this summer, won Top All-American at the National Dance Alliance camp.
Having served as captain for two years, Kaffenberger is familiar with the vital qualities it takes to make a team successful. Kaffenberber is passionate about her team and couldn’t imagine her high school experience without Platinum. “Since my freshman year I have felt included and heard in all aspects of the team. I made relationships that will last a lifetime and I will be forever grateful for the constant support the platinum program has provided me. PVP is the definition of hard work. These girls are beyond talented and I could not imagine a more perfect dance team,” Kaffenberger commented.
Through her commitment to the team, Kaffenberger has become a role model for many Platinum members and future dancers. Sophomore Varsity dancer Maggie Sommers believes Kaffenberger’s impact on the team helped the team succeed. “Josie is the best leader for Platinum. During my time on the team, she has led us to victory and is so inspirational. Not only is she an amazing dancer, but she exemplifies great character in and out of uniform. From choreographing dances to working one on one with dancers, Josie does it all,” Sommers said.
This December, Kaffenberger competed her final solo at the Iowa State Dance Team Championship, and came out victorious. “My solo this year was dedicated to my brother who has recently passed away. This solo was very special to me because it was a song that meant a lot to me after the previous months of struggling. That day, I danced for him, my family, and those who have also gone through the unimaginable. It could not have been a more perfect solo for my senior year and I will forever remember the impact he and that solo had on me,” Kaffenberger said.
Though the win was special, she danced with a new purpose and the performance extended beyond the win. While navigating her loss, Kaffenberger remained the determined leader she has proven to be throughout her years and led the team to another state title.
Kaffenberger’s undeniable talent led her to make a mark in PV athletics. Though her time on Platinum is over, her dance journey is far from done. “After just recently signing with the St. Ambrose dance team I have so much to look forward to! St. Ambrose is NAIA so I will be dancing at football games, competitions, nationals, and many other events,” Kaffenberger said. She is beyond excited to continue the opportunities she took part in when on Platinum in college.
Leaving the high school team is bittersweet for Kaffenberger as she has so much to look forward to. “After being on a team with my closest friends for a few years, I am so excited to venture out, have a new start and meet new people! I hope to grow my love for dance and take it in a whole new direction. Being a part of the team will help keep me productive and motivated through college,” Kaffenberger shared.
The memories Kaffenberger has made on Platinum will always be with her and she will miss dancing with her teammates so much. As Kaffenberger’s journey continues, her friends and family are always rooting for her and can’t wait to see what she accomplishes in her future.
