History of the Donettes

The Santa Barbara High School dance team, formerly known as a Pom and Drill Team, has a history that aligns with the evolution of such spirit squads nationwide. Drill and pom teams emerged in the early to mid-20th century as precision-based performance groups tied to school events. Pictures of Santa Barbara High School’s teams from 1959 and 1975 show their roots in these traditions.

Drill teams initially focused on military-style precision movements performed at halftime shows, often incorporating dance routines. The inclusion of pom-poms—a distinguishing feature—came later, evolving into what are now recognized as Pom or Song teams. These groups blended elements of cheerleading with synchronized dance, often performed to music, which remained a hallmark of school spirit programs in the 1960s and 1970s .

By the 1980s and beyond, many high schools began shifting their focus from traditional drill-style performances to contemporary dance styles like jazz, hip-hop, and lyrical. For SBHS, the transition from a traditional pom and drill team to a modern competitive dance team began in the early 2000s.

According to former school secretary, Dons alumna, and former Donette Patty Diaz, the Donettes were once an essential part of the school’s marching band, along with the Honor Guard, who carried letters spelling out “Santa Barbara.” In the 1970s, the band was large—around 150 members strong—and the Donettes played a prominent role in school events. However, in approximately 1993, a new band director restructured the program, removing all groups except for the band itself. This led to nearly a decade without a Donettes team.

The revival of the team began in the early 2000s, thanks to Patty Diaz, who spearheaded its return. When Ms. Goldman was hired at Santa Barbara High School in the fall of 2003, Diaz encouraged her to take over coaching the Dance team. Under Ms. Goldman’s leadership, the team transitioned into a performance-based dance group, incorporating hip-hop and jazz routines for basketball games, football games, holiday parades, and pep rallies.

By the fall of 2004, the Donettes further expanded into competitive dance, participating in local events such as the USA Dance Competition and Miss Dance Drill Team USA in the Hip-Hop Division. This marked their transformation from a traditional spirit squad into a competitive dance team, ensuring their legacy continues as an integral part of Santa Barbara High School’s culture.

More recently, the Donettes continue to perform locally at various events, including Welcome to the 805 in Oxnard and the Arts Mentorship Program Showcase. This year, the Donettes also returned to the stands, reigniting a long-lost tradition that dates back to their origins as a Pom and Drill team, performing at most home varsity football games throughout the season.

The Donettes also compete annually, demonstrating their growth as a high-level dance team. In March 2024, they won First Place Division Winner at the SHARP International State Championship at Knott’s Berry Farm, and one of their dancers, Ciena Donahue, earned First Place in Leaps. Additionally, in April 2024, they competed at HIP HOP INTERNATIONAL (USA HH Dance Championship) in Los Angeles, showcasing their talent on a larger stage.

Looking ahead, the Donettes are scheduled to participate in the SHARP International State Championship at Knott’s Berry Farm on April 12, 2025. This event is open to all school teams and will be held in Buena Park, California. The team is diligently preparing to continue their tradition of excellence at this upcoming competition.