OVERVIEW
Dance teams registered with the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) are governed by the Official Bylaws for Dance Team. These rules cover player participation limits, contest rules, team deadlines, pre-season practice requirements, season dates, tryout restrictions and eligibility rules.
COMPETITION FORMAT
MSHSL sponsors three classes of competition:
A, AA, and AA
Sizes based on school enrollment
Classes
Teams have the option to compete in two divisions:
High Kick and Jazz
Divisions
There are 4 section tournaments for each class. The top 3 in each section and division advance to the State Tournament.
Sections to State
12 reams compete for 6 finals spots in each division and class. The top 3 of finals are announce and receive medals.
State Tournment
REGISTRATION & ELIGIBILTY
-
Teams participating in section tournaments must register in December for the division(s) they will compete in.
-
Registration information is used to balance the number of teams advancing to the State Tournament.
-
Teams must compete a minimum of 3 times through meets or matches to qualify for League-sponsored tournments.
FAQs
Have questions about MSHSL Dance Team rules, offseason contact, tryouts, summer training, booster clubs, eligibility, or tournament procedures? This Minnesota High School Dance Team Questions & Answers resource was created to help coaches better understand and apply the rules and policies that impact their programs.
Use this guide as a quick reference throughout the year for common questions surrounding coaching contact, clinics and tryouts, open gyms, the summer waiver period, fundraising, outside programs, eligibility, sections, State Tournament procedures, and more.
Have a situation that isn’t covered? Always connect with your Athletic/Activities Director for clarification and official interpretation when needed.
-
Updated July 2026
