A small group of local artists have been quietly making a name for themselves on a national stage. 

The competition clogging team of Nine One Eight Performing Arts studio in White House recently earned two championship titles at the National Clogging and Hoedown Council’s National Competition. 

Thirty-nine teams from across 16 states brought a total of 155 dances to the competition at Opryland Hotel. 

“This was only our second year competing,” says studio owner Kaileigh Bullard. “Clogging is such a generational dance style. Some of the people we compete against still have grandparents competing, as well. We’re literally competing against legacies and to just step into this world as unknowns and start winning is absolutely crazy!” 

Kaileigh’s Traditional Formations Line team beat out some of the best teams in the country with their performance of “Take Me Back to Tulsa.” Along with their national championship, the team also brought home a 1st Runner-Up trophy as the second-best overall Traditional Team of the day in a category with 35 other teams.  

The second National Championship was awarded to the Nine One Eight’s Show Routine Team for their rendition of “Welcome to Hogwarts.” The team, made up of only four girls, beat out teams whose numbers were as large as 25.

“Both teams danced their little hearts out,” says Kaileigh. “It was life changing for all of us, I think, because we kinda believe in ourselves a little. It felt like we belonged there.” 

The teams are already preparing for the next competition season, which begins December 9. 

I couldn’t be prouder,” Kaileigh beams. “It’s been so fun to see my girls power through and do such a great job. They are talented, of course, but they really do work so hard.”