Hoop Contest Registration

Jasmine Bell (Crow Creek Sioux)
Jasmine Bell, an enrolled member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, has been a hoop dancer for over 36 years, sharing her family’s tradition worldwide. A two-time Teen World Champion Hoop Dancer, she has performed at prestigious venues, including the Kennedy Center and Smithsonian. A mother of five, Jasmine teaches the cultural history of hoop dance and has carried on her late brother’s dream of honoring their heritage through this art form. She holds multiple tribal titles and will graduate with a Business degree from the University of Phoenix in May 2025, continuing her lifelong dedication to Indigenous representation.

Lowery Begay (Diné)
Lowery Begay, from the Diné Nation, is a celebrated hoop and fancy dancer, storyteller, and Native flutist with over 30 years of professional experience. He has competed in the World Hoop Dance Championship and won the 2004 Schemitzun Hoop Dance title. Lowery has performed globally, including at the Grand Opening of the National Museum of the American Indian. He has collaborated with notable groups like Lakota Dance Theatre and Spirit of the Mist. A proud father and grandfather, Lowery resides in Jonesborough, Tennessee, where he continues to inspire audiences through his cultural artistry and commitment to preserving Navajo traditions.

Sage Romero (Tovowahamatu Numu and Tuah-Tahi)
Sage Romero, of Big Pine Paiute and Taos Pueblo heritage, is a renowned hoop dancer, artist, and cultural advocate. As Director of the AkaMya Culture Group, he leads efforts in Indigenous cultural revitalization through arts and education. Sage has performed globally, blending storytelling, dance, and visual arts to promote Native traditions. A motivational speaker, he inspires communities to embrace cultural identity, health, and wellness. Sage recently established the Margaret L. Romero Cultural Studio, honoring his parents, as a hub for language, dance, and wellness classes in his hometown. His creative work continues to bridge generations and foster cultural appreciation.

Daniel Tramper (Cherokee)
Daniel Tramper, a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, has been a hoop dancer since childhood, performing internationally and representing Cherokee traditions. A three-time World Hoop Dance Champion, he won titles in 2004, 2007, and 2009. Growing up in the Smoky Mountains, Daniel’s performances showcase the richness of Cherokee culture, which he has shared from local communities to stages abroad, including Germany. His journey in hoop dance, documented since 1967, underscores his lifelong dedication to preserving and sharing his heritage. Daniel remains an esteemed cultural ambassador for the Cherokee people, inspiring others with his artistry and accomplishments.

Quentin Pipestem (Tsuut’ina)
Quentin Pipestem, a member of the Tsuut’ina Nation, began performing at 16 with the Red Thunder Native Dance Theater, touring Canada, the U.S., and New Zealand. A three-time World Hoop Dance Champion (1992, 1993, 1995), he gained international acclaim, performing with the American Indian Dance Theater across the U.S. and Europe. Over a 35-year career, Quentin has performed worldwide, including in Brazil, Japan, and Australia. Recently, he has dedicated himself to supporting his Tsuut’ina community, providing assistance to those in need. Despite his new focus, Quentin continues to share his passion for hoop dance and Indigenous cultural expression.

Kricket Rhoads-Connywerdy (Kiowa and Caddo)
Kricket Rhoads-Connywerdy, a proud member of the Caddo and Kiowa Tribes of Oklahoma, is a traditional dancer skilled in Caddo, Kiowa Buckskin, Fancy Shawl, and Jingle styles. She toured with Charles Chibitty, the last Comanche Code Talker, sharing their culture worldwide. Alongside her artist and champion war dancer husband, they raise their three children with a deep respect for tribal traditions, language, and dance, passing their heritage to future generations.