The art of Hoop Dancing is more than just a competition—it is a celebration of culture, endurance, and storytelling. Last week, some of the world’s most talented hoop dancers gathered once again to showcase their skills at the annual Hoop Dance Championship at the Heard Museum In Phoenix Arizona . Among them was Terry Goedel, a seasoned dancer who placed second in the Senior Division this year. Over his 28 years of competing, he has impressively taken home first place NINE times.
Terry Goedel @n8tivehoop - Dallas Arcand @celtic_cree - James Jones @notoriouscree
WE ARE AMAZED - EVERY YEAR!!!
At 69 years old, he continues to push himself in a division that spans from ages 40 and up. With this year in August marking his 70th birthday, he reflected on what it meant to stand among the competitors this year.
"The older I get, the more challenging it becomes to stay actively competitive. When I saw the level of competition this year, I was just happy to place. Over the years, it has become more difficult, but earning second place was a great accomplishment for me. This competition keeps me active and gives me a goal to work toward."
Terry Goedel @n8tivehoop - Dallas Arcand @celtic_cree - James Jones @notoriouscree
Managing Nerves on the World Stage
Even with years of experience, stepping onto the stage still comes with its challenges. The pressure of performing in front of a worldwide audience can be nerve-wracking, but his approach has always been rooted in faith.
"Right before I dance, I say a prayer and thank the Lord for my talents and abilities. I remind myself that these gifts come from our Heavenly Father. The nerves are always there, but I just go out and do my best."
Interestingly, this year, some of the first-time competitors expressed their own anxieties to him.
"I had the chance to talk with some of the Living Legends in our dance community, and even they were nervous. I told them that their presence alone was making an impact. Hoop dancing isn’t just about the performance—it’s about changing hearts and showing people who we are."
Grand daughter Tacoma Campbell with Living Legends Friends
& Stephanie Pyetwetmokwe DeSpain @chefpyet
A Year of Preparation
For those unfamiliar with the competitive side of hoop dancing, routines are not thrown together overnight. They take months—sometimes years—of refining and perfecting.
"Every year, right after the competition, I start thinking about what I want to improve for next year. I never introduce something new at the last minute. I spend the entire year perfecting my routine, practicing at schools and events. It’s a full year of preparation."
This discipline and dedication show in his performances, proving that hoop dancing is a lifelong craft.
Dancing with Family: A Special Connection
This year, the competition took on an even deeper meaning, as his nephew, Eric Hernandez, and granddaughter, Tacoma, competed as well. However, one familiar presence was missing—his son, Michael, who had just welcomed his third child.
Eric Hernandez with Fiance Pyet DeSpain
"Usually, my son Michael travels with me. We talk the entire time, so it felt lonely without him. But having my nephew and granddaughter there made it special. We would sit down and evaluate our performances together, and they would ask me for advice. It felt so good to share that experience with them and hear their youthful perspectives."
Dancing has always been a family tradition, and seeing the next generation embrace it brought a sense of pride.
Michael’s Reason for Missing the Competition:
Meet the newest member of the N8tive Hoop family—Liam Michael Goedel! We’re thrilled to introduce Michael and Celeste’s beautiful baby boy to the world. With hoop dancing in his blood, who knows what the future holds for this little one? Congratulations to the proud parents—we couldn’t be happier for your growing family!
The Standout Moments Beyond the Competition
While winning a title is always an achievement, some of the most memorable moments happen outside of the competition itself. This year, a special highlight was seeing a large group of BYU Living Legends members in attendance, supporting their fellow dancers.
"Fifteen of them were there just to support, while four were competing. Two young women came up to talk with me, and we had a great conversation about BYU and Living Legends. These moments, the ones that the world doesn’t always see, are often the most meaningful."
Another powerful moment happened while watching his nephew, Eric, perform.
"A young dancer asked me to record her performance, and it just so happened that she was dancing alongside Eric. Afterward, I was able to praise her for coming and encourage her. She was so happy, and I even took a picture with both of them. It’s moments like these that remind me—it’s not just about winning or having a grand routine. It’s about the connections we make and the impact we leave on others."
The Beauty of Unique Dance Styles
Another highlight of the competition Terry said was observing how different dancers approached the art form. Sitting beside fellow hoop dancer Patrick Wiley, they enjoyed discussing the contrasts in styles.
"We were like commentators, pointing out the little details that most of the audience wouldn’t notice. Every dancer has their strengths, their own unique way of telling their story. There’s no one out there who is perfect, but that’s what makes hoop dancing so special. Everyone brings something different to the floor."
Terry Goedel Dancing.
Images taken by: Aaron Tsosie
Looking Ahead
As he prepares to step into his 70s, his passion for hoop dancing remains unwavering. This year’s competition was not just about earning a place on the podium—it was about legacy, connection, and carrying on a sacred tradition.
For him, and many others in the hoop dance community, the competition is not just about the movements—it is about the stories they tell and the hearts they touch along the way.
If you want to learn more about Terry Goedel’s life and how he discovered the Hoop Dance, check out his autobiography, Circle of Light. It’s filled with stories about his journey, experiences, and the path that led him to where he is today.
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