Brink To Dance For McKendree

Lauren Brink signed to Dance at McKendree University. Lauren is seated between her parents Mike and Melanie Brink. Standing from left to right: Lauren’s brothers Ryan Brink, and Aaron Brink, NCHS Athletic Director Alicia Heggemeier, NCHS Dean of Students Jennifer Maschhoff, McKendree Dance Coach Sara Miller, NCHS Stingers Coach Carly Middleton, and NCHS Stingers Assistant Coach Alyssa Lohman.
By Brent Huelsmann
Another member of the NCHS Stingers is headed to McKendree University to continue dancing. Lauren Brink will join Meritt Rittenhouse as a member of the McKendree University Dance Team. Brink danced at NCHS for four years as member of the Stingers.
”“I chose McKendree because I have always loved to Dance and I think they have a really great dance program and academic program, and I feel like that is the place where I will be most successful,” said Brink when asked about her decision to go to McKendree University.
Brink said she always hoped to dance at the next level and plans to keep on dancing as long  as possible.. “As long as I can do it, I want to keep going with it.”
When asked what she has meant to NCHS, Stingers coach Carly Middleton praised Brink’s hard work, dedication, and fearlessness.  Anytime we have needed any flips or ariels, or things like that she has always been down to try something new. She’s definitely not afraid of anything.”
Brink has been a part of a very successful stretch for the NCHS Stingers.  This past season, the Stingers advanced to IHSA State, which Brink states was one of her favorite memories at NCHS. The Stingers also competed at the IDTA State Finals this past February.
At the next level, Brink will have at least one familiar face on the team. Although Brink and Rittenhouse will continue to dance with each other at McKendree, Middleton says there will still be a big adjustment. “Biggest adjustment is always just bonding with your team. Lauren has been dancing with the same four girls for a lot of years, so it’ll be hard to adjust and feed off what their talents are but she’ll do great.”
As for what she’ll bring to the team, McKendree Dance Coach Sara Miller talked about Brink’s ability to learn quickly. “She picks up choreography really quickly. She will be on our competitive team, and she is getting a scholarship of $3,000. I also think having her friend Meritt on the program will help kind of bring some good team spirit our way.”
While at McKendree, Brink plans on double majoring in psychology and sociology. Brink wants to become a school counselor.