ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - Jordyn Tran, 8, brought home national titles in both solo and group performances from the Leap! National Dance Competition in Orlando, Florida, on June 29 through July 4. The premier event gives dancers across the country of all skill levels a stage to showcase their talents.

Jordyn, representing Sacramento-based KAST Academy of the Arts, competed in both solo and group categories. She faced 37 of the nation’s top dancers ages 6 to 8 and was the only hip-hop soloist in the “Skip Mini Solo” division. She earned the title of 2025 Leap National Grand Champion and took first place in two group performances with her dance team.

 

Jordyn Tran competed in both solo and group categories. She faced 37 of the nation’s top dancers ages 6 to 8 and was the only hip-hop soloist in the “Skip Mini Solo” division. 

“What makes this journey special is how it started,” said Jordyn’s father, Vu Tran. Jordyn has been dancing for only two years and this was her first solo competition season.

“We knew Jordyn had rhythm before she could even walk,” Tran said. “By the time she was barely two, she would sit glued to YouTube watching the Jabbawockeez, mimicking every move with this intense little expression.”

Feliciano Keith Turk, dance coach and owner of KAST Academy of the Arts, called Jordyn a “little fireball” with strong focus and work ethic.

 

Jordyn Tran, 8, competed in both solo and group performances at the 2025 Leap National Grand Champion representing local dance studio, KAST Academy of the Arts. 

“She’s really hard working, likes to challenge herself and push to the next level,” Turk said. Her current challenge is competing against older youth in multiple dance genres. “She’s motivated, fun and practices hard. Hopefully, she stays competitive, focused and keeps leveling up.”

Tran said that Jordyn’s success came after dedication and support from her coaches and teammates. In February, she initially placed sixth at Leap’s regional competition in Sacramento. Her father said this motivated her to work and practice harder.

In March, Jordyn went on to place third at the Monsters of Hip Hop in Santa Clara and first at the Oro Dance Competition in Roseville winning “Most Entertaining Award” that qualified Jordyn for nationals.

 

Here is Jordyn Tran pictured with her family after her first-place win at the Oro Dance Competition held in Roseville from March 21 through March 23. 

“This has been a full family effort. From praying together about her decisions to driving to practices and competitions, even transforming our garage into a mini dance studio,” said Tran. “We’ve tried to keep Jordyn grounded in faith and kindness, believing the person she becomes matters more than any trophy.”

 Pictured is the 2025 Best of Leap Nationals award.

He noted that Jordyn’s younger sister, Rae, is following in her footsteps and has expressed interest in pursuing dance.

During Jordyn’s trophy interview, her father said that Jordyn thanked God, saying, “I couldn’t do it without Him.” She also shared her motto: “Give it a try; you might surprise yourself.”