Each year LFHS athletic teams attend the North Suburban Conference, held by IHSA (Illinois High School Association) to compete against seven other teams in the area. 

The NSC awards one athlete from each team a sportsmanship award. This award is given to the athlete who exemplifies dedication, responsibility, selflessness, and whose overall excellence exceeds expectations. 

On Jan. 16, the Lake Forest Varsity Dance Team competed in the NSC Championship, and junior Reese Harper was awarded the NSC sportsmanship award. She is now headed to compete at UDA Nationals in Orlando, Florida with her team.

It has become a tradition for LFDT coaches to pick a junior on the team. Head Varsity Coach Angela McNicholas and Assistant Varsity Coach Ashley Nash continue to carry on that tradition. 

“Juniors are often veterans of the program and have a wealth of knowledge to share with their team without the title of a senior leader. We like to acknowledge juniors who have been critical to the team’s growth,” McNicholas said. 

As a third year returner to the varsity team, Harper has experienced both victories and struggles. She understands how to lead her team, but also supports them, and according to her coaches, does so with pride. 

“Reese’s fierce commitment and team-first mentality is in the fabric of who she is as an athlete,” Nash said. “She only sees the best in her teammates, and she brings a contagious positivity and desire for more that helps drive our team toward our goals.” 

Harper’s hard work is also recognized by her teammates. After spending three seasons with Harper, senior Captain Rachel Silvers says her presence has totally changed the team dynamic, and her energy constantly motivates the rest of the team. 

“Reese is truly a force to be reckoned with. Not only is she a strong dancer, but she is a kind and thoughtful teammate,” Silvers said.“Reese is someone anyone can learn from, rely on, and look up to daily, both as a person and an athlete.”