Bonney Lake High School Pantherettes: A Legacy of Excellence in Drill Team

The Bonney Lake Pantherettes 2024 1A/2A/3A Kick Chamnpions

The Bonney Lake High School Pantherettes Drill Team is the epitome of a powerhouse of precision and passion. This squad of dedicated dancers embodies the epitome of athleticism, artistry, and teamwork.

In a recent interview, team President, Katie Barrett illuminated the rigorous demands and rich history that define the Pantherettes. "The BLHS Drill Team is a year-round sport/activity," she emphasized. "Our members devote a minimum of 9 hours per week to practice at school, in addition to countless hours honing their skills and perfecting routines on their own time."

At the helm of this impressive team is Head Coach Lisa O'Brien, whose tenure since 2014 has been marked by unparalleled success. Supported by an exceptional coaching staff, including Lindsey O'Brien, Gigi Osborn, Chelsea Ray, Nicole Warren, and Marcie Dunn, alongside Choreographer Brynn Lawrence, O'Brien has steered the Pantherettes to an exceptional array of accolades.

The Pantherettes supporting the school at the high school football game.

With a glittering trophy cabinet boasting 6 State Championships in the Kick Category, 3 in Show, and 2 in Military, the Pantherettes are perennial contenders on the Washington drill team circuit. Not to mention their remarkable streak as District Champs for over a decade, coupled with numerous first-place finishes in regular season competitions.

Yet, behind the glitz and glamour of victory lies a profound sense of tradition and camaraderie. Barrett shared a delightful anecdote tracing the roots of the team back to the school's inception, when Mrs. Clarke, wife of BLHS principal Mr. Clarke, founded the Drill Team. "It's a legacy," Barrett mused, "where former Pantherettes return as coaches, embodying the spirit of hard work, perseverance, and respect instilled by their predecessors."

The Pantherettes at Disneyland

The Pantherettes' journey extends beyond the state borders, as evidenced by their recent foray into the WCE Nationals, where they clinched 4th place in both the military and kick routines. However, amidst the intense competition, the team finds moments to unwind and bond, as exemplified by their spirited escapade to Disneyland.

But it's on the home front where the Pantherettes truly shine. In their crowning achievement of the season, the team once again clinched the 1A/2A/3A Kick Champions title at the state competition in Yakima. Barrett beamed with pride as she recounted the team's stellar performances, with their show routine reaching new heights and the military routine securing a commendable 5th place finish.

The Bonney Lake Pantherettes 2023 Kick and Military Champions, 3rd place in POM.

And let's not forget the JV Pom team, whose fourth-place finish at the JV competition underscores the depth of talent within the Pantherettes program.

As the curtain draws on another remarkable season, the Pantherettes look ahead to the future with anticipation. Tryouts draw near on May 9th-13th, beckoning new talent to join the ranks of this illustrious team. With their firm commitment to excellence and a legacy forged in sweat, tears, and triumph, the Bonney Lake High School Pantherettes continue to dance their way into the hearts of fans and foes alike.