Meet Sierra Koops, a talented young dancer whose passion for movement has taken her from the dance studio to international stages. Currently juggling three dance programs, Sierra is living proof of what happens when dedication and love for the art form collide. Sierra's journey into the world of dance began at a young age. She first stepped into the studio at the age of four and has been dancing ever since. “I’ve been at Murrieta Dance Project (MDP) since I was little, and it’s been my primary dance studio,” she says. But dance isn’t just something Sierra does—it’s part of who she is. In addition to her training at MDP, she’s also on the Thompson Middle School Dance Team and a proud member of the California Tap Company’s USA Team.

For Sierra, dance is more than just a hobby—it’s a way to express herself. Her dedication to the art is evident in the variety of styles she performs, from ballet and jazz to hip hop, lyrical, contemporary, and, of course, tap. It was in tap dance that Sierra found her true calling. “I’ve been competing at MDP since I was five,” she explains. “I did a jazz solo in my first year of competition, but by my second year, I knew tap was where I belonged. My teacher said I had a strong sense of musicality, and that’s when I started to shine.” By her second year of competing, she placed in the top five at all of her competitions, with one notable first-place win. Her talent didn’t go unnoticed, and soon she became known for her tap skills.

What Sierra loves most about dance isn’t just the chance to compete, though. “Dance has helped me build confidence,” she shares. “I’m not nervous performing in front of hundreds of people anymore. And I love learning new combos and styles. Even within the same genre, every teacher brings something different to the table, so it’s always exciting.”

Perhaps one of the greatest rewards of dancing for Sierra has been the chance to connect with other dancers from around the country—and the world. “Through dance, I’ve met so many amazing people, and it’s been such a privilege to connect with dancers from different cultures and backgrounds.”

One of Sierra’s proudest achievements came just last year, when she represented Team USA at the IDO World Tap Championships in Prague, Czech Republic. The experience was nothing short of surreal. “It felt like being an Olympian,” she recalls. “I got to stand on the podium with my teammates, and hearing ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ play—it was such an emotional moment.”

Sierra’s team didn’t just show up—they won big. The Children’s Group (ages 8-12) took home the gold medal, and Sierra’s duet also earned silver. “We were representing the USA, and I felt so honored to be there with my friends. It was an experience I’ll never forget.”

As for what the future holds, Sierra is keeping her options open. “I don’t know exactly where the dance will take me,” she says, “but I know my feet will always be tapping to the beat of the music as I figure it out.” Whether it’s pursuing dance professionally or exploring other opportunities, one thing is clear: Sierra’s love for movement is here to stay.

Sierra Koops is an inspiring reminder of the power of passion, hard work, and the incredible things that can happen when we follow our dreams. With medals around her neck and a future full of potential, she’s just getting started. Keep an eye on this rising star—there’s no telling where her next step will take her!