Welcome to Eastern Connecticut Step Squad!

Founded in 2024, Eastern Connecticut Step Squad is a non-competitive dance drill team based in Willimantic, Connecticut. We were created to give youth in our area a safe, fun place to move, grow, and shine — especially for families looking for a more inclusive, modern, urban alternative to traditional dance or cheerleading.

Our organization began when two local families came together after realizing they could not find quite the right fit for their children in the Windham area. By combining nonprofit leadership, organizational experience, and drill team skills, they built something new: a welcoming squad where kids can belong, build confidence, and have fun.

We welcome children from Willimantic, Windham, and surrounding communities including Columbia, Lebanon, Franklin, Scotland, Hampton, Chaplin, Mansfield, and beyond. Our squad includes local youth in grades Kindergarten through 12, and all children in that age group are welcome to participate regardless of gender, skill level, or mental or physical disabilities. There are no tryouts — just an open invitation to join in.

At Eastern Connecticut Step Squad, we focus on more than dance. We focus on teamwork, character, and helping every participant feel encouraged and included.

Our squads practice twice each week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from early May through August, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at Memorial Park in Willimantic. Throughout the year, we share our talents at community events including Third Thursdays and Latin Fest, and we also host a talent show so family and friends can celebrate the children’s hard work and dance skills.