Modern step dancing first emerged in the early 1900s, but its roots run as far back as the 1500s.[1]
Formed over centuries, step dancing combines the traditions of African percussive dances like juba with the skills of competitive drill teams and marching bands.[2]
Stepping truly developed into the art form we know today when African-American sororities and fraternities began using dance teams as a way to connect with and support each other.[1]
Below, we have more than 40 step team name ideas. Below the list, we also provide tips to help you create your own names!
Royal Heat
Hot Steppers
Heat Wave[3]
Supreme Beings[3]
Step Commanders
Step Revolution
Elite Divas
Ignited Steps
The Hit Squad[4]
Step Legacy
Next Level[3]
Rhythmic Thunder[4]
Poison Steps
Doomsday Panthers[3]
Revolution X[4]
Monarchs[3]
Step Stars
Rhythm Squad[4]
Outlaw Steppers
Beatz[4]
Step Gents
short for “gentlemen”
Fire Starters[4]
[City/neighborhood] Steps
Elite Affliction
Heat Squad
Elite Emeralds[4]
Soul Steps
Bone Crushers[4]
Lady Steppers
Spirit Shakers[3]
Team Tempo
Daring Dolls[5]
Royal Calamity
Momentum
Stomp That[3]
Lethal Steps
Illusion[3]
Dazzling Divas[4]
Uniteam
a play on “unity”
Elite Movement[3]
Step Royalty
Ice Breakers[5]
Abundant Fire[3]
[City/neighborhood] Steppers
Free Movement[5]
Star Steppers
Flame Steppers
How to Create Your Own Step Team Names
Your step team might want to create a name that’s unique, personal, and reflects its personality perfectly.
Create your own step team names with the following tips:
- Choose strong descriptors. Top-ranked teams in the National Step League have names like “Rams of Destruction,” “Royal Executioners,” “Catastrophic” and “Majestic Ambush.”[6] While your name doesn’t necessarily need to be intimidating, choosing descriptors like “Elite” and “Royal” or active words like “Ambush” can be perfect for step teams with powerful performances.
- End your name with “Steppers,” “Steps,” or “Squad.” By using one of these words to end your name, you’re already on track to create something great — you just need to add a word or two in front! Choose something inspired by your city (e.g., “Motown Steps”) or just a phrase that represents your team well (e.g., “Rhythm Squad”).
- Keep it appropriate. Step teams are often associated with or perform at schools, so keep your audience in mind when choosing your name. In general, even community step teams of adult dancers prefer to keep their names free of profanity or other harsh words.