Look for Hayden at all SIU-C Football and Basketball games as well as NCAA Dance Competitions
By Jim Beers
CHESTER – Chester High School senior, Hayden Cartwright, tried out for the Southern Illinois University at Carbondale Dance Team and was recently informed that she has been selected to be a member of the 2026-2027 Saluki Shaker Dance Team.
Photo credit: CHS Head Dance Coach Adrianne Kern
Cartwright will graduate from Chester High School Sunday May 17 and will soon begin her collegiate career at SIU Carbondale. While at CHS Hayden was a member of the CHS Dance Team and performed with that team at all YellowJacket Football games and Basketball games.
The CHS Dance Team, coached by Adrianne Kern, also competed at IHSA Dance Competitions and was well known for being a “top-notch” squad. All of Cartwright’s hard work has paid off as she will continue her dancing career with the Saluki Shakers while at SIU-C.
The Saluki Shakers just finished competing at the 2026 NCAA Dance Competition in Florida and did well, according to SIU Dance Team personnel. Hopefully Hayden and the 2026-2027 team will have the opportunity to compete at the 2027 competitions.
Congratulations Hayden Cartwright and good luck in this next chapter of your academic and athletic endeavors at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.