Once their group's name was announced as overall winner, Outlet dancers ran onto the stage, jumping and dancing in triumph.
After an evening of intense performances and tough competition, Outlet was able to come out of Air Jam on top. With a combination of fast-paced technique and unquestionable style, Outlet was able to solidify its place in the lip-synching performance history books. Each act brought its own spice to an event that never lacks flavor, especially if that flavor means fat-guy suits, scantily-clad women and several '90s favorites.
"Outlet is good every year," University Singers member and Air Jam participant Brooke Jendruski said.
This year, they had the hardware to prove it. As what is traditionally one of the biggest Homecoming events of the week, Air Jam has always been a student favorite.
Tickets for the event sold out nearly six hours before the curtains opened, Air Jam Chairwoman Mia Trimboli said. Geoff Kolar and Madi Hike emceed the night's festivities, leaving out an abundance of corny jokes, and let the dancers take the main stage.
"I just want to see people dance," freshman crowd member Nikki Milligan said.
Those around nodded in approval. The Black Student Association even encouraged students to rock the vote by sporting white shirts with the slogan, "I Heart My Vote."
"It's election year, and we want to kind of focus on it," junior Shannon Morton said.
BSU Elite's routine brought in a large audience, as their performance received one of the loudest crowd reactions. Other big acts of the night included University Singers, Rhythms Dance Troupe and Sigma Alpha Epsilon, who ended up winning in the greek category.
In honor of the King of Pop, three groups performed to Michael Jackson medleys, while Alpha Omicron Pi sorority's group brought a giant stuffed panda onstage to help with its routine. There was no lack of musical or dance diversity.
But despite the judges' vote, the Spectrum girls' routine to Katy Perry's "I Kissed a Girl" was a crowd favorite.
This was their first year in the competition, and they took home the crowd favorite award.
"Everyone just loved the idea. All of our members were behind us 100 percent. They were excited and we were pumped," Spectrum member Patrick Pataky said.
WinnersOverall winner: Outlet Hip-Hop troupeCrowd favorite: SpectrumGreek winner: Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternityIndependent winner: Outlet Hip-Hop troupe
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