March 29, 2024

Pacesetter to continue career at Grand View

Caves signs letter to accept dance scholarship

There are 33 student-athletes who have made the 2016-17 Grand View University dance team.

Fortunately, Macey Caves feels she’ll not only fit in with the team, but won’t be overwhelmed by the talent level on the squad. The Newton High School senior was joined by her family and coaches Wednesday to sign her letter of intent to attend Grand View and become a member of the dance program on a scholarship, having made the 2016-17 competitive team roster a few weeks prior.

“I’m a little nervous because all of the dancers there are so amazing,” Caves said. “But they’re also very kind. I’m confident they’ll help me in any way that I need it.”

Caves was joined at Wednesday’s signing by her parents, Kenny and Lora, her brother Reece, Grand View cheer and dance coach Stacie Horton and Newton Pacesetters coach Paige Meredith. Horton is about to begin her 15th year at Grand View.

The four-year member of the Pacesetters said she had given a few other schools a look, but really wanted to attend Grand View because of its nursing program, and hoped to continue her dance career as well.

“I love dancing,” she said. “I’ve done it since I was about 2 years old. I can’t imagine my life without it.”

Caves’ mother, Lora, a reading specialist teacher at Berg Elementary School, also attended Grand View. She thinks of her alma mater as a welcoming and encouraging environment.

“I graduated from Grand View 24 years ago,” Lora Caves said. “When I took Macey on a tour a year ago, one of the staff members recognized me and gave me a huge hug. Grand View is a small school. The staff are very friendly and helpful.”

Lora Caves said she also wanted to see her daughter continue dancing.

“Dance is her passion,” Lora Caves said. “As a parent, I hated the thought of her stopping something that she has loved to do.  Also, I wanted her to be able to find her place at Grand View, so I encouraged her to try out for the dance team.

One of the other 33 dancers who made the 2016-17 Grand View competitive squad is Kaci Hodge — a 2013 Newton High School graduate who Macey Caves describes as a good friend. They’re joined by at least three other former Pacesetters who are active with other college dance teams.

Macey Caves said in addition to the support of family and friends through the years, it seems dance itself has been a friend to her in stressful moments.

“Whenever I’m mad, nervous or just upset, dance brings me out of it,” she said.

Contact Jason W. Brooks at 641-792-3121 ext. 6532 or jbrooks@newtondailynews.com