The Bobcat Belles are the award-winning precision dance and drill team of Hallsville High School, known for their impressive performances and dedication to excellence. Founded in 1979 by Mrs. Seleta Cummins, the Belles are one of the oldest high school drill teams in East Texas. Since their debut performance at two football games that fall, the team has grown into a celebrated part of the school’s athletic and artistic traditions, continuing to entertain and inspire audiences year after year.

Under the leadership of Mrs. Cummins, the Belles quickly became a standout team. By 1982, they extended their performance schedule to include contests and launched their first annual stage show, “Showcase,” featuring the high-kick finale known as “Friends,” a signature piece that continues to be a crowd favorite. That same year, with new director Mrs. Cindy Martin, the Belles achieved their first major contest success, earning a Sweepstakes award and qualifying for their first trip to the state drill team contest in Houston, where they achieved a gold division rating.

In December 1988, Mrs. Freda Goerner took over as director and propelled the Belles to new heights. Known for their innovative routines and precision, the Belles became a dominant force in competitions, earning numerous National Grand Champion titles. Mrs. Goerner’s leadership left a lasting legacy, and in 2011, she was honored with a lifetime achievement award from Showtime International, recognizing her contributions to the team and the drill team community.

Today, the Bobcat Belles are under the direction of Mrs. Kathryn Calaway and Assistant Director Mandy Jenkins, both proud alumni of the Belles themselves. Throughout the year, the Belles perform at varsity football and basketball games, as well as host their annual “Belle Show” performance, which is a must-see event every February in Hallsville.

In the spring, the Belles add to their long and storied tradition by competing in regional and national contests, continuing the legacy of excellence that has defined the Bobcat Belles for decades.

The Bobcat Belles Dance Company was established to provide young dancers with a strong foundation in both dance and moral character through affordable weekly lessons. Taught by the Bobcat Belles director, drill team alumni, and assisted by current Belles members, these classes offer an opportunity for students to develop their skills while supporting the current Bobcat Belles team. All funds raised through the dance program go directly to assisting the Bobcat Belles. The classes focus on jazz and hip hop, two styles that complement each other by building technical skills and enhancing performance qualities.

The dance curriculum combines various elements of jazz, ballet, pom, and hip hop to create well-rounded performers. Jazz and ballet focus on alignment, technique, and fluidity, while pom and hip hop emphasize sharp arm motions, formation awareness, and stage presence. Throughout the year, students will alternate between learning jazz or pom routines and hip hop routines, which they will showcase at the end-of-year class show-offs and in the Belles' Winter Show. As participants progress, they can expect improvements in flexibility, coordination, strength, and confidence, along with enhanced rhythm, posture, balance, and creative movement.

The Bobcat Belles Dance Company offers recreational classes that prioritize fun while developing essential dance skills. For students aspiring to join the Bobcat Belles drill team, it is recommended that they take more than one dance class per week to better prepare for auditions. In addition to the Belles Dance Company, several studios in nearby Longview and Marshall offer specialized training in jazz technique, ballet technique, and drill prep to help dancers master the skills required for future auditions.