Starlettes continue HBCU dance tradition on campus and in the city
By Raygan Irvin
They are more than just talent that light up the sidelines. Xavier’s official dance team, The Golden Starlettes, made their presence felt during Mardi Gras season joining the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale parade and Krewe of Athena parade and performing at The HBCU Night Pelican game on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026. Originally known as the Gold Star and Pom Squad, the Xavier’s official dance team has been around since 1984 carrying out their mission to represent culture, legacy, and discipline.
“They are setting a great standard for young black girls who want to go to HBCUs, letting them know there are a multitude of things they can get involved in on that level,” said Dr. Ian Scott, the associate director of Athletics.
Twelve Starlettes currently make up the team assisted by two managers for the 2025-2026 season. Head Coach Krystal Holmes said that it takes a mix of strong dance ability, confidence, discipline, and performance presence to be able to compete at this level. Students who love to dance with strong technique, perform with quality, and maintain good grades and conduct are encouraged to attend tryouts.
“Not only are they talented in dance; they are talented in academics,” Holmes said. “They are well rounded individuals and as a Golden Starlette that is something I love about these girls,” she added.
The Golden Starlettes specialize in majorette, which is a dance style that is rooted in HBCU legacy and culture. As a Xavier Mass Communication alumna, former Golden Starlette herself, and a New Orleans native, Holmessaid majorette groups connect deeply with HBCU legacy culture.
“Majorette is that HBCU style,” Holmes said. “That is something that we try to keep sacred, and we are excellent at that,” Holmes added.
The dance team mainly performs at Xavier men’s and women’s basketball games, but their talents and performances extend beyond dance. Holmes’ goal is to get the dance team exposure to different environments. Due to her previous experience as a Golden Starlette, she does not limit her responsibilities to the dance floor but exceeds them to ensure her girls excel in every aspect of their life.
“The Golden Starlettes is just about being able to dance and do something your passionate about; beauty, excellence, and leadership it’s all those words in one,” Holmes added.
Finding balance in academics and performance is something The Starlettes value most. Dedicated to giving their best each game, their weekly preparation includes frequent practices, endurance, and precision. While the audience are entertained by polished and uniformed performances, behind the scenes hard work is being put in mentally and physically for these successful outcomes. For the dancers, it is not just about dance but leadership and legacy. As they continue to represent Xavier, they hope their impact extends further than the sidelines.
“You have to put yourself first,” said Makaiya Loper, the senior captain of the team, and a Public Health Major. “You have to take a step back and be like, what are you here for? What do you want people to remember you for?” she added.
Those interested should follow the The Golden Starlettes Instagram page @xulagoldenstarlettes_ to learn more information about tryouts, which will be held at the end of April 2026.
