Jan. 20, 2008

The University of Northern Iowa dance team has qualified for the finals at the Universal Cheer Association/Universal Dance Association (UCA/UDA) National Championships in Orlando, Fla.

UNI began the competition as one of 25 teams in the event. The Panthers are one of 13 teams to qualify for the finals on Sunday, which begins at 10 a.m. UNI enters the finals ranked No. 3 in the nation.

The UNI Dance Team is making its seventh appearance in the national championships since 1999. The UNI Dance Team recorded an all-time best finish of fifth in last year's championships.

Coverage of the event, held at the Indiana Jones Theatre at Disney's MGM Studios, can be found at www.varsity.com.