Sunday, December 30, 2007
Feature On Former St. Thomas Dancer
Star News
When you watch the Minnesota Timberwolves Dancers on television or at the Target Center, look for a lean, energetic 5-foot-3 blonde with a high-megawatt smile and long, luxurious hair.
That’s Ashley Kurr, a 23-year-old Elk River native who’s been dancing since age 4 and joined the Wolves’ performance team this year.
“I have always loved watching sports,” said Kurr, “and this is a great way to be part of a sporting event while continuing my dance career. It’s another step up — from studio to St. Thomas dance team to professional with a sports team.”
The dance team performs two dances at each of the 41 regular season home games, plus exhibitions and playoffs.
“We are not cheerleaders,” Kurr said. “We are a dance team. But we do have poms, and we greet fans and do some sideline cheers.”
Kurr graduated from St. Thomas last year and works as an account manager for Business Impact, a promotional firm in Chanhassen. All the dancers are either in college or have graduated.
Other dance team tidbits: They have about 50 costumes. Dances are performed no more than three times each. They do all their own choreography under coordinator Abby LaDuke. In full force or partial groups, they make around 300 appearances per year including TV, radio, restaurants, malls, and charity events. And the dancers don’t mix with the players, said Kurr: “We see them on the court, obviously, and we see them in passing, but we don’t hang out.”
The pay’s not great, but the job has perks like free tanning and hair care and tickets for friends and family. And mainly the fun and prestige of being a dancer for a big-league team.
“I am thrilled to be a member of the Minnesota Timberwolves Dancers and have loved every second of this season,” said Kurr. “Being in dance for nearly 20 years, I have still not lost my passion for it and don’t think I ever will.”
Kurr’s parents, Greg and Dawn, have held season tickets to the Wolves for several years. (“Now they’ve got one more reason to go!” Ashley says.) She has one sibling who’s her favorite athlete: Kyle, a former Elk hockey player now skating with Hamline.
While attending ERHS (class of 2002), Kurr was a sports fan but not involved in dance team, cheerleading or sports. She channeled her energies to studio dancing with The Dance Shoppe in Plymouth from age 4 through high school. They learned tap, ballet, and traditional dances, and had many recitals and competitions.
Kurr danced with the St. Thomas team for four years and earned a degree in communications with a minor in community health. Her team was Division III national runner-up her last year.
Anxious to keep dancing, Kurr tried out for the Timberwolves team in early August, along with a St. Thomas teammate named Eileen.
“The first day, we learned a dance and performed it,” Kurr said. “There were over a hundred girls, and 25 or 30 were called back. Then we had interviews and photos the second day.
“And we found out the next day on the Web site. If your picture was there, you made it!”
Kurr saw both her photo and Eileen’s, much to her delight. You can check out the team yourself on www.nba.com/timberwolves/dancers/.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Young Dancers To Perform With Orange Pride
The Huntsville Item
It wasn’t cold enough for rosy cheeks Saturday, but there were plenty of girls whose smiles were framed by them yesterday at Sam Houston State University’s Health and Kinesiology Center.
Girls of various ages participated in a dance clinic sponsored by the SHSU Orange Pride dance team. This is the second camp held this year and the first year the dance team has held the dance clinic.
“We plan to make this a yearly event,” said Orange Pride dance coach Allyson Ramsey.
Today at the 3 p.m. Bearkat women’s basketball game against Arkansas Little-Rock, the young dancers will have the opportunity to perform at the half-time performance with the Orange Pride.
The girls were split into different ability levels and with the guidance of the Orange Pride dancers, learned two dances. They performed for proud parents and supporters before the clinic ended for the day.
Smiles lit up some faces while others had more serious looks of concentration. All were focused on getting each move right, watching their coaches and keeping one eye on their audience, all at the same time.
The beginner group was the largest with 10 young dancers. Orange Pride member Gloria Smith helped with the group and has now acquired many new fans.
“They were great to work with,” she said.
Smith likes working with kids and with the help of two other Orange Pride dancers taught the girls a routine to “Santa Baby.”
Smith said the biggest challenge was their attention span but “we worked through it.”
Billie Lyons, a student at SHSU, takes her 9-year-old daughter Elizabeth to the games on campus and said she loves to see the Orange Pride dance.
“This was the first time for her to participate in something like this and she just loved it,” said Lyons.
Lyons said Elizabeth will be getting dance lessons for Christmas this year and she can’t wait to start.
A real treat for the girls was to have a front row seat to see the Orange Pride team perform following their young students’ performances.
All the proceeds from the dance clinic help send the dance team to Daytona Beach, Fla. in April for the televised National Dance Association competition.
The Orange Pride dance team performs at each home football game as well as the men and women’s basketball games. They will be selling calendars also to help with the cost of going to Florida.
If interested in future dance clinics, contact the Spirit Programs by calling 294-3861.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Racer Girls Qualify For National Dance Championship
By Ashley Edwards
TheNews.org
It's not often a University team gets to compete nationally, but the Murray State Racer Girls will be doing just that in January.
The Racer Girls qualified for the Universal Cheer Association and Universal Dance Association College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship to be held Jan. 18-20 in Orlando, Fla.
The team, led by its third-year captain Lauren Moore, senior from Benton, Ill., has never competed before.
Moore said she has wanted to compete since graduating high school.
"This is the competition you dream of when you dance for a college team," Moore said.
Most teams qualify for nationals by attending a camp hosted by the Universal Dance Association, but since the Racer Girls did not attend camp they submitted a video of the team performing a routine. The video was then evaluated and judged against other dance teams from universities of the same size.
Twenty-five dance teams were selected nationally to compete in the two divisions, dance and hip-hop. Moore said the Racer girls will compete in the hip-hop division, which is more freestyle and street dancing. The dance division focuses on proper technique.
"We just decided what type of dance we were strongest in and had the most fun doing," Moore said.
The Racer Girls have already begun working on their routine for nationals. Moore said most teams have a professional choreograph their routine, but the Racer Girls decided to dictate their own routine and have settled on a "shake" theme.
They are practicing three hours per day in addition to performing at basketball games. They are also planning to return from Christmas break early on Jan. 5 to finish preparations on the routine.
"I think we will do really well because we're such a talented team and we're all really close and everybody is working really hard," Moore said.
In addition to the long hours the team is putting in to prepare for nationals, they are also busy raising money to pay for the trip.
Moore said registration costs about $4,000, which includes participation fees, accommodations, a park hopper pass for Disney World and transportation to events. An additional $4,000 is needed to pay for the team's additional expenses.
Rebate nights, concession stand duty, ticket sales and local businesses donations have helped the women raise some funds already.
They are also selling raffle tickets from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. through Dec. 10 on the second floor of the Curris Center. Prizes include a Playstation 2, tanning minutes to be used at Express Tan, a Walmart gift card and a gift card for car washes from Shell Station. The winners of the raffle will be announced Dec. 10.
For another fundraiser, the Racer Girls will host a dance clinic from 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Dec. 8 in Carr Health for children from kindergarten through 12th grade. Participants will work on technique and will learn a group dance, which they will perform at the basketball game later in the evening.
Moore said the team has raised about $3,500.
"Everyone is really excited but we are so stressed out about the fundraising," Moore said. "We're trying to stay positive and focus on the competition and not worry about the money."
" … I'm really excited and it means a lot to get the opportunity to compete because I've been able to work with such a good group my last year," Moore said. "Without them I wouldn't have been able to achieve this goal I've had for the last four years."
Student Life Association Adviser Re'Nita Avery has been the Racer Girls' adviser for four years. She said she is excited the team finally has a group that agreed to compete.
"I am very excited for the girls," Avery said. "This is a big step for them and they are really putting forth the effort."
Anyone wishing to support the Racer Girls on their journey to nationals is encouraged to participate in the ongoing fundraisers or make a donation to the team.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Aggie Websider Dancer of the Game
To see Tiffany's profile, click here
For all of Allison Schulke's Dance Team features this season, click here
Friday, November 23, 2007
Nothing's Better Than The Dance Team
The Daily Free Press
This past weekend was one of the roughest to be a Terrier fan, and it was especially difficult for Jesus and I. It began Friday afternoon in Chestnut Hill, when the women's soccer team made an early exit from the NCAA Tournament. Like the field hockey team, the women's soccer team won the America East Tournament but couldn't do anything in the NCAAs.
It only got worse when the women's hockey team got shut out on home ice against St. Cloud State. I honestly don't know where that school is located, but it's a cool name.
Things started to look up later that evening, when the men's hockey team absolutely pounded Vermont. Someone must have told the team, "Hey, some parts of the country will be able to see you guys play tonight because this game is on CN8." That's the only reason I can explain why the team scored NINE goals. First they net seven at home against UMass-Lowell, then nine on the road. At this rate, in two weeks - when the Terriers host BC - they should score a record 11 goals at Agganis. I can't wait.
Unfortunately, the momentary bliss I enjoyed Friday night didn't last. What I predicted would happen did in fact happen: After scoring nine goals the night before, the Terriers lost by one Saturday night to the same team in the same building. I guess the Terriers really need to be on TV to shine. Sadly, this wasn't the only loss Saturday.
For the second night in a row, the women's ice hockey team dropped a game to St. Cloud State. Over in Agganis, Jesus and I witnessed back-to-back basketball losses -- something I never want to experience again.
First, the women's basketball team lost to Ohio State University. Later, the men shot a porous 37 percent from the field in a loss to St. Joseph's University -- a team the Terriers really just cannot beat.
I stood in the front row as the clock ran down Saturday, staring at Jesus, questioning my existence.
Through all the tears, turmoil and trouble I experienced this weekend, there was some success. And when I say success, I mean HOT success.
See, there is a team at Boston University that remains undefeated and has stayed unbeaten since the team's inception.
If this team were a hockey player, it would be Tom Morrow. If it was a meal, it would be dessert. If it was a place, it would be paradise. The Boston University Dance Team: collectively, they are a perfect 10 and God's greatest creation.
The BUDT attends all basketball games, and if it was up to me it would be at all hockey games, too. Northeastern University has cheerleaders at its hockey games, so why don't we one-up them (as BU usually does to NU) by featuring the dance team at Agganis? I can guarantee attendance records would be absolutely shattered.
I remember at last year's men's basketball America East Tournament that almost every other school had a dance team. Looking at the other dance teams was like looking at a car crash -- so horrific, bu I couldn't stop staring in complete disgust.
As soon as the Terrier dance team walked out, the other squads stepped aside. The intimidation factor was tremendous. The BUDT is on a whole different level -- it can compete with most, if not all, NBA dance teams. When you see the BUDT, enjoy it, because it doesn't get much better.
The dance team stands behind the basket near the entrance to Case Gymnasium. There is a reason for that, which I finally realized this season: The opposing team shoots toward the entrance of Case in the second half of every game. Imagine trying to shoot free throws while 14 gorgeous girls are shaking their moneymakers in your face. Not easy.
Last year, the team thrilled Jesus and I. We went to the first basketball game unaware such a pleasure existed. Now, when there's a break in the action, Jesus and I divert all of our attention to the dancers' perfectly choreographed routines.
Now, I'm not knocking the cheerleaders -- I like them too. But there's something very special about the dance team. Perhaps it's that it really is a team -- they each have numbers, an official roster and names that Jesus and I have memorized just like the basketball and hockey roster.
My dream this season, you ask? Yes, I want to dance. Yes, Jesus wants to dance. Yes, we want to dance with the dance team. I don't know if we're good enough to be included, but if the dance team allowed us to be incorporated into one of its routines, my life would be complete. I wouldn't know what to live for anymore.
These ladies are the real deal - perfection, honestly. At Agganis, they paint faces and give out temporary tattoos. You can't miss them at Case. If you attend a basketball game this year, make sure you stay in your seat after the first 20 minutes because the BUDT always perform and never disappoints. Jesus and I appreciate all they do and hope the team continues its undefeated dominance. You go, girls.
This past weekend was one of the roughest to be a Terrier fan, and it was especially difficult for Jesus and I. It began Friday afternoon in Chestnut Hill, when the women's soccer team made an early exit from the NCAA Tournament. Like the field hockey team, the women's soccer team won the America East Tournament but couldn't do anything in the NCAAs.
It only got worse when the women's hockey team got shut out on home ice against St. Cloud State. I honestly don't know where that school is located, but it's a cool name.
Things started to look up later that evening, when the men's hockey team absolutely pounded Vermont. Someone must have told the team, "Hey, some parts of the country will be able to see you guys play tonight because this game is on CN8." That's the only reason I can explain why the team scored NINE goals. First they net seven at home against UMass-Lowell, then nine on the road. At this rate, in two weeks - when the Terriers host BC - they should score a record 11 goals at Agganis. I can't wait.
Unfortunately, the momentary bliss I enjoyed Friday night didn't last. What I predicted would happen did in fact happen: After scoring nine goals the night before, the Terriers lost by one Saturday night to the same team in the same building. I guess the Terriers really need to be on TV to shine. Sadly, this wasn't the only loss Saturday.
For the second night in a row, the women's ice hockey team dropped a game to St. Cloud State. Over in Agganis, Jesus and I witnessed back-to-back basketball losses -- something I never want to experience again.
First, the women's basketball team lost to Ohio State University. Later, the men shot a porous 37 percent from the field in a loss to St. Joseph's University -- a team the Terriers really just cannot beat.
I stood in the front row as the clock ran down Saturday, staring at Jesus, questioning my existence.
Through all the tears, turmoil and trouble I experienced this weekend, there was some success. And when I say success, I mean HOT success.
See, there is a team at Boston University that remains undefeated and has stayed unbeaten since the team's inception.
If this team were a hockey player, it would be Tom Morrow. If it was a meal, it would be dessert. If it was a place, it would be paradise. The Boston University Dance Team: collectively, they are a perfect 10 and God's greatest creation.
The BUDT attends all basketball games, and if it was up to me it would be at all hockey games, too. Northeastern University has cheerleaders at its hockey games, so why don't we one-up them (as BU usually does to NU) by featuring the dance team at Agganis? I can guarantee attendance records would be absolutely shattered.
I remember at last year's men's basketball America East Tournament that almost every other school had a dance team. Looking at the other dance teams was like looking at a car crash -- so horrific, bu I couldn't stop staring in complete disgust.
As soon as the Terrier dance team walked out, the other squads stepped aside. The intimidation factor was tremendous. The BUDT is on a whole different level -- it can compete with most, if not all, NBA dance teams. When you see the BUDT, enjoy it, because it doesn't get much better.
The dance team stands behind the basket near the entrance to Case Gymnasium. There is a reason for that, which I finally realized this season: The opposing team shoots toward the entrance of Case in the second half of every game. Imagine trying to shoot free throws while 14 gorgeous girls are shaking their moneymakers in your face. Not easy.
Last year, the team thrilled Jesus and I. We went to the first basketball game unaware such a pleasure existed. Now, when there's a break in the action, Jesus and I divert all of our attention to the dancers' perfectly choreographed routines.
Now, I'm not knocking the cheerleaders -- I like them too. But there's something very special about the dance team. Perhaps it's that it really is a team -- they each have numbers, an official roster and names that Jesus and I have memorized just like the basketball and hockey roster.
My dream this season, you ask? Yes, I want to dance. Yes, Jesus wants to dance. Yes, we want to dance with the dance team. I don't know if we're good enough to be included, but if the dance team allowed us to be incorporated into one of its routines, my life would be complete. I wouldn't know what to live for anymore.
These ladies are the real deal - perfection, honestly. At Agganis, they paint faces and give out temporary tattoos. You can't miss them at Case. If you attend a basketball game this year, make sure you stay in your seat after the first 20 minutes because the BUDT always perform and never disappoints. Jesus and I appreciate all they do and hope the team continues its undefeated dominance. You go, girls.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
2008 College Dance Team Video Entry Results
Can Minnesota regain its IA title after finishing third last year, or is Tennessee starting a new dynasty of its own? Can the California schools, Cal State Fullerton and Long Beach State, stay atop the Division I standings? And who will take the open division this year: St. Thomas, Orange Coast College, or someone else? We’ll have to wait and see, but in the meantime, you can see all the video entry results at Varsity.com
Division IA
1. Minnesota (Paid 1-5)
2. Wisconsin
3. Tennessee
4. Cincinnati
5. Memphis
6. Kansas (Invite-Semis 6-23)
7. Florida State
8. Louisiana
9. Central Florida
10. Louisiana State
11. Michigan State
12. Alabama
13. Iowa
14. Illinois
15. South Florida
16. East Carolina
17. Mississippi
18. Hawaii
19. Michigan
20. Kent State
21. Colorado State
22. Auburn
23. Oklahoma
24. Georgia (Invite-Prelims 24-28)
25. Northwestern
26. Southern Mississippi
27. Louisiana-Monroe
28. Syracuse
Division I
1. Missouri State (Paid 1-2)
2. Delaware
3. Southeastern Louisiana (Invite-Semis 3-21)
4. Long Beach State
5. Idaho State
6. Cal State Fullerton/North Dakota State
7. Northern Iowa
8. UC Santa Barbara
9. George Mason/Illinois-Chicago
10. George Washington
Open Division
1. St. Thomas (Paid 1-2)
2. Orange Coast College
3. Lindenwood
4. Avila
5. St. Cloud State
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Tommie Dance Team ranks No. 1
The University of St. Thomas Dance Team has done more than just qualify for the 2008 National College Cheerleading and Dance Team Championships in Orlando, Fla. By winning the top position in a field of 38 teams in its division, the team also has earned an all-expenses paid bid to the competition.
To compete, teams must submit an unedited videotaped routine to earn a place on the national competition roster. Just like the actual live championships, the videotapes are judged and pre-ranked. Top teams in each division (based on the school’s NCAA sanction) receive the paid bids.
“Our main goal each year going into the taping portion of the competition is to send in the best routine possible … one that we feel confident about,” said fourth-year coach Alysia Anderson. “At this point, the hard part is that you never know what other teams are doing.”
The team taped the same routine during five consecutive practices. “The judges are looking for team synchronicity and difficulty in the videotapes, so when we are taping for several days it all comes down to team consistency and execution,” Anderson said.
Winning isn’t new to this team. The UST Dance Team, which already has two new routines learned for nationals, won its first national title in 2006; however, Anderson has only three members from the championship team on this year’s roster. “The talent that has come into St. Thomas over the past few years is remarkable. I think our top ranking history at the national level has definitely put UST on the map and attracted prospective students specifically interested in the dance team program,” she said.
Although the Tommies qualifying routine was a jazz style, they will compete in both the jazz and hip hop categories this January. “We have placed in the top two in both hip hop and jazz the past three years, so it’s neat to say that we are a well-rounded and versatile team that is able to stay competitive in both styles,” Anderson concluded.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
CLU Team Members Handle Coaching Duties Themselves
Photos by Eric Parsons
Ventura County Star
Sabrina Frailich has all the shirts made.
The college coed takes care of finding someone to do the embroidering and a seamstress when one is needed for the costumes; she takes care of the warm-ups and bags.
When it's time for nationals, Frailich buys the makeup and figures out how they'll do their hair.
Everything a coach might do, the members of the California Lutheran University Dance Team do on their own.
It's more work added onto already busy school schedules, but Dance Team members say it's rewarding, as they have watched the program grow from its infancy years ago to be a staple of Cal Lutheran athletics.
"It's hard, because we are self-run, but it is a little more rewarding that we are self-run because at the end of the day we can pat ourselves on the back instead of giving someone else credit for it," Frailich said.
The group has been around for years but became serious and started entering competitions during the 2004-05 year, under the guidance of captain Kaytie St. Pierre, said Kelli Yorita, a senior on this year's team.
It was and still is considered a campus club. Initially, Dance Team members had to find their own practice space and the team developed by word of mouth.
The Dance Team performs at all Cal Lutheran home games for football and basketball. It also participates in other school functions, including a fall carnival and Midnight Madness, which kicks off the basketball season.
"The gym is packed beyond words," Frailich said. "It's a really fun night. That's where a lot of people, if they haven't already heard about us, they hear about us then."
In January, Frailich and her teammates will make their annual appearance at the College Dance Team National Championship at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. The competition is held through the United Dance Association.
There the Dance Team, from Division III Cal Lutheran, will compete with schools from Division II and Division I, programs that have full dance faculty and in which dance is recognized as majors and minors.
Frailich, who is in her second year at Cal Lutheran, said that in January 2006, the team placed 13th in Division III, and this past January the team didn't officially place.
In previous years, the team looked at nationals as fun and a reward for all the hard work they put in on campus. This time, they are taking a different approach as a dance team that has established itself on the Cal Lutheran campus.
"We have an amazing choreographer that came in and is doing our pieces for us to take to nationals," Frailich said. "We're working way harder this year than we did last year as far as technique, actually focusing on our dancing and hoping to take it as far as we can."
Yorita said, "There are a lot of community colleges that are a force to be reckoned with. They are awesome to watch and we are not up at their level."
Teams can perform two dances. The CLU team will perform an open dance with more of a jazz feel and a hip-hop dance. They have hired two choreographers, Sacha Bryant for the open dance and Alex Baron for the hip-hop dance, but have no continuing relationship with them. The choreographers will teach the material and leave.
"We take our own independence and kind of go with it," Frailich said.
No coach also means that younger team members have to observe the upperclassmen and all they do, so they can help run the program when the seniors graduate.
The Dance Team began with $250 of school funding. The amount has grown from about $2,500 last year to $10,000 this year from the student body. The members do a variety of fundraisers but gain a large portion of their funding from working at Borderline Bar and Grill in Thousand Oaks, which has College Night on Wednesdays. This year the Dance Team works there once a month.
Individuals have to be 18 to get in — 21 to get in the bar area — and the Dance Team receives a portion of the door fee for each person who comes in. They are also paid to help in the bar area, whether it's pouring drinks or serving. Any tips they get to keep.
All the work is worthwhile, said Frailich, who was a cheerleader all four years at Simi Valley High and spent her first two years of college at CSU Channel Islands.
She danced in a studio but, seeking a major Channel Islands didn't have and hearing from a Cal Lutheran alumnus about the dancing team, switched to the Thousand Oaks school.
"I think that without dance and without cheerleading, sports wouldn't be the same, especially at a high school and college level, where school spirit is an emphasis," Frailich said.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
WCU Dance Team Raises Money For MADD
The Quad
The West Chester University dance team is stepping out on campus with the hope to be recognized by the university for making a difference.
On Oct. 20, the dance team hosted a car wash at John L. Smith, Inc., a local used vehicle dealership, and raised $600 that was donated to Mother's Against Drunk Driving.
The dance team represented WCU by attending the Second Annual Strides for Change Walk, supporting Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
"The WCU dance team was one of the only representatives walking to simply help the cause, not because we were directly impacted by drunk driving," WCU dance team captain Christina Hydzik said.
The dance team has decided to "actively involve themselves by supporting prominent issues that impact college campuses." The organization chose to represent Alcohol Alternative Events.
"We did this in hopes to show our spirit as a student-run organization on campus," Hydzik said.
This is a promotion campaign created and supported by the University's Public Safety. Officer Maverick Barr and Miss WCU, Andrea Helfrich, helped establish this organization on campus. The promotion campaign was aired on the campus television station.
AAE gives students an alternative to the typical college scene on the weekends. One of the events consists of free transportation to a selected bowling alley along with free pizza and soda.
The dance team has many goals for the year including fundraising for several causes.
"The money we raise goes to MADD and other fundraising we do helps send us to the Universal Dance Association National Competition, where we compete against colleges and universities from all around the country," Hydzik said.
The dance team will be competing in the UDA Nationals for the third year in a row and are motivated to improve from last year after placing ninth in their division.
Besides promoting their organization through fundraisers, other goals for the dance team are to be more involved on campus.
"We want to be known and recognized by the university as making a difference," Hydzik said.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Feature On Former Sacramento State Dancer
Student Lindsey Allred leads the dance group for local basketball team, the Sacramento Heatwaves
By Charles Weinstein
Media Credit: Jessica Bright
The State Hornet
When you first meet Lindsey Allred, her features and toned physique might distract you. The former Sacramento State dancer was recently named the dance team choreographer for the Sacramento Heatwaves and has a lot planned for the basketball season entertainment, her life and her love of dance.
This is Allred's first time choreographing for a sports organization and she said she's excited to show the fans what her dance team can do.
"We're all about entertaining the crowd. We know how to keep the energy going," she said.
The Heatwave is similar to the Sacramento River Cats of baseball, only it's basketball, Allred said. The first two games for the team will be home games on Nov. 2 and Nov. 4, Allred said.
The game opener will be held at the Natomas High School Event Center, where Allred she said plans to show the public the Heatwaves' performance-style dance.
"We have a lot of hot and fun routines," she said. "You won't be disappointed."
Dancing is a dream come true for the 24-year-old biological science major, which is obvious from the way she talks about it. She said for her, dancing is doing something words can't describe.
"I really feel like I was dancing in the womb," she said. "It's all natural for me."
Allred started dancing at the age of 2. Throughout her career, she added jazz, ballet, point, hip-hop and lyrical dance to her repertoire.
She also loves to share her experience and passion for dancing with a crowd.
"It allows me to share my excitement for dance with the people," she said.
Allred's long road to success started at Sac State where she was a member of the Sac State dance team for two-and-a-half seasons. For her second season, she earned the team captain position and went on to earn her team a hip-hop national championship.
Allred said it was a huge stepping stone and an experience she would use to build her confidence and leadership skills.
"I wouldn't be where I'm at without it. It really helped me reach my goals for the pros," she said.
Allred got the opportunity to dance for the Heatwave through her former Sac State coach Jolie Roberts. Roberts informed her that the Heatwave was looking for a choreographer and Allred decided to give it a shot.
"I sent my resume and photos and I proposed how I wanted to run the dance team and so they hired me," she said.
Reggie Davis, owner of the Sacramento Heatwave, said he was very excited to have Allred on the team because of her background in dance and because of her drive and determination.
"She proved herself above and beyond our expectations. She's a great dancer and her personality and attitude were right for the job," Davis said. "She's very dedicated and committed to the dance team and we're very fortunate to have her."
Allred said she has many goals for the dance team this season, one of the most important is being more community involved.
"We want to go out there and interact with folks. If I send a girl out in the public and she can't articulate a conversation, then we have a problem," Allred said. "It's not all about the dancing. We're definitely looking for the total package."
The Heatwave dance team consists of 11 girls, and most have different ethnicities and racial backgrounds. But Allred said all the girls on the team have one thing in common: "They're smart and they're hot."
On top of Allred's schedule as head of Heatwave's dance team, she said she is also a full-time student and hopes to attain her pre-med certificate.
"Unfortunately, I can't dance forever. So I want to use my mental capacity to go into plastic and reconstructive surgery," Allred said.
Allred said she also has a part-time job at the Department of Corrections. She spent a year in college as a computer science major and works in the information technology department fixing computers and building databases.
"I just did the computer stuff on the side for extra income," Allred said.
With all the time she spends on dancing and her career, the former Miss Teen Yuba-Sutter doesn't have much time to consider her personal life, which is something she said she wouldn't mind changing.
Aside from dancing, Allred said she loves to stay in shape, visit the beach and spend time with her friends.
She is also single and said the most important characteristic about a man is intelligence. She said she can't stand guys who are arrogant and lazy.
"I'm super independent and I'm super single," she said.
Someone who is just as busy and independent as her is definitely a plus.
"I have a busy life so I need someone who can keep up with me," she said.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
UW-Fond du Lac Dance Team Kicks Off Season
by Jennifer Meress
FDL Reporter/Action Advertiser
The University of Wisconsin-Fond du Lac dance team is starting the season with energetic attitudes and team spirit. Coached by Tracy Schneider, the team consists of eight talented girls.
The team will be performing at basketball games and other athletic events in the campus gymnasium. The team plans to entertain the crowds with the innovative routines that they are creating throughout the season. Members include: Alyssa Norenberg, Allison Doerr, Courtney Froehlich, Jennifer Schmidt, Jennifer Meress, Dawn Rogan, Aimee Gleason, Miranda Ernisee, Jessica Serwe and Lexi Schumacher.
School-related fundraisers are being considered, said Shumacher, as well as competing in dance competitions throughout Wisconsin. Funds would be used to purchase dance attire such as uniforms and shoes and help in the area of advertising and marketing.
Schneider, financial specialist at the campus Business Office, is an experienced coach who started dancing when she was in high school where she became a member of the cheerleading squad. Later, she coached cheerleading at Oakfield High School. This is her first year of dance team at the campus.
“It seems like we have a lot of good dancers so far. I think we’re going to stick it out and last the whole season,” Schneider said.
“Last year it started off with seven girls and ended with myself,” said Schumacher, who was a member of the 2006 team. “I really hope to see it go all through the year and have everyone stay involved,” she added.
“There seems to be a lot of interest and great ideas so far. All of the girls seem very eager to start practice and perform at as many games as possible. I can't wait to see how the season goes,” Doerr said.
Practices will be held every week on Wednesdays and Fridays, lasting about two hours in the Physical Education building. For more information about the dance team, contact Schneider at the Business Office.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Kentucky Dance Team Camp Dates
Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity! Participants will enjoy a day camp with members of the UK Dance Team. During the informative and fun-filled day, they will learn and work on a variety of dance skills.
In addition to the day clinic, participants will have the opportunity to perform at halftime of a University of Kentucky Women’s Basketball game with the UK Dance Team!
The camp is open to all girls, ages 5-12.
CAMP LOCATION/DATE/TIME:
UK Women’s Basketball Practice Court at the Joe Craft Center (located behind Memorial Coliseum)
10:00 am - 2:00 pm • November 17, 2007
Check-In will begin at 9:30 am
LIVE PERFORMANCE AT MEMORIAL COLISEUM:
UK Women’s Basketball Game at Memorial Coliseum
2:00 pm • November 18, 2007
Camp Fee:
- $45.00 per girl (This includes a camp t-shirt, lunch, group photo, and game admission for each girl.)
- Registration and fees must be received by Friday, November 9.
THE GOOD STUFF:
- Participants will have lunch with members of the UK Dance Team. We will provide a sack lunch and drinks for each child.
- Participants will be given a “Future UK Dancer” t-shirt, which they will wear for the halftime performance on game day.
- Participants will receive a group picture with the team to remember their day at camp.
Dress to Dance:
- On the day of camp, girls should wear lace-up tennis shoes. A t-shirt with shorts or comfortable pants will be appropriate attire.
- For the halftime performance, all dancers will need to wear black shorts or pants with tennis shoes and their camp t-shirt.
To download the registration form or to register online, Click Here
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Chico State Dancers Kick Up Energy, Foster Lasting Friendships
Media Credit: Robin Epley
The Orion Online
The dancers line up and practice a routine, their feet creating a rhythmic and uniform sound on the hardwood floor. The performance has begun, and the mirror is the audience tonight.
Like super-charged female ninjas with a knack for fluid motion, these women do jumps, turns and moves requiring energy and focus at their dance practice.
These women, with a smooth mojo and love for the stage, make up the Expressions Dance Team.
With 15 members, the team performs at campus sporting events and participates in community activities.
"Most of our dancers have lots of experience and have been dancing since they were between 3 and 6 years old," said Kristin Carmack, the team's co-captain. "Dancers usually try out because they love to dance and want to keep doing it in college."
Tryouts are in the fall, and if a dancer makes the team, it's a nine month commitment, Carmack said.
Throughout the year, the team performs at volleyball, soccer and basketball games.
The women also participate in the Fun Without Alcohol Fair, a high school dance festival and prepare all year for their showcase in April, she said.
When selecting music for routines, team members pick music that is PG so it is appropriate for any performance.
"People get really into it," Carmack said. "Crowds will sing songs during dance routines."
The team primarily performs hip-hop and jazz styles, she said.
Though the squad performs at sporting events, it is not a cheerleading team, Carmack said.
The women only perform at halftime shows rather than doing sideline routines.
"We're very focused on the team, but more focused on the individual dancer," she said. "There is always time to show off. Each person has their time in the spotlight instead of group stunts in cheerleading, and by the end of the year, every dancer has improved."
Along with dance improvement, joining the team also builds friendships.
Everything about Expressions Dance Team makes it worthwhile, said Sam Slack, a sophomore on the team.
Lasting friendships are formed, and some past members and former captains come back to watch the team perform.
And because students run the team, each member has a personal investment.
"I love the girls, the atmosphere and the fact that students do the choreography," said Arianna Ibarra, the team's other co-captain.
Being on the squad is also a way to relieve stress, Ibarra said.
"Dancing is a sense of therapy for me," she said. "Everyone has a way to express themselves, and dancing is something I've done all my life. It never gets boring, and it's always a challenge."
With many members attending school and working at the same time, it's sometimes difficult to juggle it all.
"It gets pretty stressful," said sophomore Amy Muntifering.
She works two jobs, has 16 units and participates on the team.
"Sometimes I think, 'Oh no, I have to go to dance, and I didn't do my homework.' But it's a way to relax and a way of expression," Muntifering said.
The adrenaline rush from performing and the nervousness about getting everything right raises the heart rate, she said.
The dancers on the Expressions Dance Team are dedicated multitaskers. For them, dancing is a priority, and it is never sacrificed even in poor weather.
"We're going to perform tomorrow night," said Carmack, referring to a women's soccer game with a chance of rain. "We've never missed a soccer game yet."
Sunday, October 14, 2007
UWW Dance Team Is About More Than Just Glamour
Royal Purple News
Football games embody the spirit of American culture. Roaring crowds cheer on their favorite team to a hopeful victory. Energy and excitement takes hold as the opposing sides battle for glory. Once halftime begins, the players retreat from the field and the fans settle down, casually mingling and grabbing a bite to eat at the nearest food stand.
Then, all of a sudden, the crowd revs up again as they quickly stand, whistle, and applaud. There's no way halftime could already be over. Then they appear. Several girls in sparkly outfits with shiny poms walk out onto the turf. The dance team becomes the star of the show.
To many, the art of dance is not a sport but merely a recreational pastime. After dancing for fourteen years and participating in various competitions, I can testify that this art form is no less of a sport than football. Dance chasséd into my life at the age of four and inspired me to explore ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop and poms.
During my sophomore year of high school, I was blessed with the opportunity to become a member of the varsity dance team. This experience taught me just how much hard work and dedication goes into a great performance.
A successful dancer must commit to hard work and lots of practice. You only gain as much as you give. A dance team or company incorporates many grueling hours of practice each week in order to improve and perfect their skills. Flexibility is arguably the most important ingredient to the success of an aspiring dancer. You would be amazed at what some girls can do because of the elasticity in their muscles.
A kick line seems graceful when viewed from the sidelines, but if you went backstage and saw the pain and effort taken to stretch and condition the muscles, a newfound appreciation would take hold. Stretching can become so rigorous that I remember days when it hurt to walk or even sit down. Bruising is a common occurrence from landing hard on your knees or performing various techniques.
During the summer months, my dance team practice began at 6 a.m everyday. The endless drilling of technique and routines accounts for sheer exhaustion not to mention a plethora of sweat. A mandatory dance camp pushes dancers to work 110 percent.
This is no Girl Scout camp. There are no milk and cookies.
Competitions take things to a whole different level. Everything goes into overdrive as practices are doubled and expectations increase ten-fold. The coaches are stricter and demand more than what was once before sufficient. A certain level of trust must be built with the other girls on the team in order to pull off a flawless performance.
Dance team retains this title because it is just that, a team sport. A bond forms, and the team becomes a group of sisters. Just as there is in football, dance team competes at a regional, state, national, and even international level. Numerous rules and codes must be followed or an automatic disqualification occurs. Just one bobby pin in the hair or trace of nail polish and the whole team's chance of placing comes crashing down. If one girl's nails are not short enough, the rest of the team suffers.
Blood, sweat, and tears all go into the process of achieving victory. Your heart and soul is poured out through your movements and spilled across the floor. Many define a sport as a physical activity that uses skill to compete. Dance definitely fits this mold. Next time you find yourself regarding those young women out on the field at halftime as some silly little dancers, think twice. Those dancers have just as much talent and heart as any other athlete.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Anast: Still Having Fun As A CEU Dancer
The Eagle Online
“The best thing about being a dancer is that no matter how silly you look or how goofy it is, you still get to have fun,” I heard Melissa Anast exclaim in class. This toe tapping, rhythmic moving teacher took time off and sat down for an interview.
Anast was born in Price and graduated from Carbon High School.
“Afterward I attended College of Eastern Utah two years and was part of the drill team here as well. I then attended the University of Nevada at Las Vegas (UNLV) where I received my bachelor’s in dance and my Pilates certificate.”
“After that I attended graduate school for dance choreography, followed by Mills College in Oakland, Calif.”
She advises Eagle Dancers at CEU, an all-woman’s dance team that does hip-hop and jazz movements that boggle our minds with their stunning dance moves.
“Well, I would hope that they would all be like that, I take my time choreographing the dances to my standards and my team’s standards. We do a lot of jazz and hip-hop, it’s really exciting fun,” Anast said.
Drill is a competitive sport, that takes endurance and being able to handle stress under pressure, Anast cannot be the only one working, she needs the help of her captains on the team. “I have captains, two of them, they help me with things that I can’t do alone, but the other girls help me as well, and are just as important. My two captains are Laurel Lemon, a returning drill dancer from last year, and Lexi Yelonek.”
The whole time being a teacher, Anast has to come up with so much, sometimes with very little. It’s always amazing to see what comes up next.
“I do all the moves, I come up with the counts and steps as well. The girls give input on the dance, I do the choreography and we all share the fun.”
Other than performing in class and performing in the games, Anast hopes to give back to her community for all the support they have given her. “Well nothing is on for right now, but I hope to do something within the community, something beyond the games.”
Being in dance takes the ability to move across the floor and work as a team instead of being just a one-woman show, Anast needs all of them to rely on. “I just don’t have one best dancer, they’re all amazing dancers. Each of the girls show different strengths and weaknesses, for instance if one girl on the team didn’t get it, the other girls will help her along.”
Anast has spent her entire life dancing. “I started dancing when I was two years old, I went to the Linda Johnstun’s Dance School, and from there I made up routines for my friends and neighbors. I was in talent competitions and other fun events growing up.”
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Cincinnati Dance Team Feature
By Keith Jenkins
The News Record
Leaving behind a trail of pirouettes, split-leaps and fouette combinations, the University of Cincinnati dance team has garnered success year after year. Winners of three consecutive National Championships in the hip-hop category from 2004 to 2006, and one point shy of a fourth championship in 2007, head coach Lisa Spears and her 28-member dance troop have built a routine-spawned dynasty.
As the team strives to sit atop both the hip-hop and jazz categories, and prepares for another trip back to Orlando, Fla. for nationals, there is a lingering worry in the back of each of their minds as one of their own, Kristen Drew, fights a battle with cancer.
"We're going to go back and win it again this year," Spears said. "Last year we placed second in jazz, which is the highest we've ever placed in that category."
Spears, who was a member of the dance team at local Goshen High School, brings the same values she learned from her years with UC's dance team from 1991 to 1994. Now in her 10th year as head coach, her experiences have left quite an impression on her dancers.
"Coach [Spears] keeps a constant reminder of every little thing counts," said Jamie Cobb, third-year UC dance team member. "It's the in-betweens that count. The in-betweens that make the big picture. She's always constantly reminding us someone's watching and to present yourself well and just act like a lady."
The squad is hard at work staying in shape and practicing routines four, sometimes five or six times a week, according to team captain and Mason, Ohio native, Emily Greenstone. Spending so much time together causes the girls to become more than just teammates.
"They are like family," said Brittany Jones, second-year dance team member. "They basically are my sisters."
Jones, a Mesquite, Texas native and one of only two non-Ohioans on the team, ventured on the 20-hour trek up to the Midwest in pursuit of a higher education and to become a member of the award-winning UC dance team.
As an only child, having no friends to join her in the new environment or knowing anyone who was also attending the university, Jones realized a move to the Queen City would be much harder than she ever envisioned.
The squad has to constantly keep Jones on track and on top of things since she's used to her mom being around, according to Cobb.
Over the past few months, the team has missed a key attribute to its success.
Drew, a second-year dance team member and Cincinnati native, was diagnosed with leukemia in late July.
With a two-and-a-half year treatment program ahead of her, Drew is forced to take 30 pills a day and undergo chemotherapy once a week, according to Spears.
"[Kristen] is a great teammate," Spears said. "She unfortunately had to withdraw from school this year, but she's still in touch with all the girls. She finally made it to practice the other night."
With her visit, Drew was able to give the UC dance team a dose of her characteristic good nature and easy-going personality.
"She's definitely the clown, the class clown," Spears said. "Her presence is being missed. It was really hard on us at first, but I think everyone's accepted it and they've done their best to just keep her here. Every night we say a prayer and we always, always remember her."
Greenstone echoed that same sentiment. "[Kristen] always has been the one that's made all of us laugh and just keeps our energy up," Greenstone said.
Spears, Greenstone and the rest of the UC dance team have established the Kristen Drew Foundation, which is an account where donations can be made to help the Drew family with medical expenses, according to Spears. The team also worked a fund-raiser this summer for Drew.
On Saturday, Oct. 13, as the UC football team hosts the Louisville Cardinals for a Homecoming, Big East showdown, there will be a booth and boxes at each entrance where people can make donations to Drew and her family.
In addition, all proceeds earned from the admission to Bearcats Fan Jam, the official kick-off to the UC basketball season, will go toward Drew's cause, according to Spears
With help, Kristen can switch-leap past this obstacle and get back to what she loves most: dancing. That's all coach Spears prays for as Drew continues to fight.
"She's actually doing really good," Spears said. "She's got a great attitude. She's the most confident person I've ever met."
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Former Wisconsin Dancer With DCC
Melanie Conklin
Wisconsin State Journal
The last time I saw Kelly Jo Stauffacher was two years ago. She was the reigning Miss Madison, attending a MAGNET anniversary party and working a day job at Inacom as a marketing manager.
Now she 's living in Dallas, still working in the technology field, although she 's with AT&T. And her new side job gets far more attention.
In August, she officially donned the famous blue-and-white uniform of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders.
In college at UW, Stauffacher, a Madison native, was on the Badgers dance team. But before Cowboys tryouts the 26-year-old hadn't danced much since graduating in 2002.
After a company she 'd been working for in Charleston, S.C., was sold last year, Stauffacher returned to Madison and was staying with her parents between jobs when she saw a TV show called "Making the Team, " about the Cowboys cheerleaders.
"I just fell in love with the idea, " Stauffacher says. "Once I saw the show, I thought, I 'm not done dancing! ' "
After April 's cheerleader auditions, she made the initial cut for training camp, which she says was difficult.
"We had to learn the jump split, which is something
I 'd never done before, but it is the signature Cowboy thing, " she says.
"What I was unprepared for, however, was the level of expectation. There 's no room for mistakes, no room for excuses. It wasn 't a typical rehearsal. It was always an evaluation. "
Asked if she gets recognized around Dallas when she 's out of uniform, Stauffacher says it is happening more frequently and the reaction is generally one of awe, something else she 's still adjusting to.
"The mystic, the tradition -- it is so big here in Texas, " says Stauffacher. "It 's one of pure respect.
"At my local Starbucks I get free coffee, which is good because I like my latt s. "
It also means Stauffacher has to "keep up appearances at all times when I 'm out in public. "
Stauffacher credits her mother, Karen Stauffacher, who recently retired as assistant dean of the UW School of Business, as her role model.
"My mom takes the bull by the horns, " she says. "She taught me well. "
While even veteran Cowboys cheerleaders have to re-audition every year, Stauffacher hopes to remain on the squad, which she describes as close-knit, for "many seasons into the future. "
You can see Stauffacher on this year 's version of the show that attracted her to Dallas. "Cowboys Cheerleaders -- Making of the Team 2 " airs at 8 p.m. Fridays on CMT (cable Ch. 72 in Madison). Or watch it at www.cmt.com.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
OSU Dancers Excited For New Season, First-Ever Boy
Uweekly.com
On Thursday nights, while many students begin strolling down to the bars, Multipurpose Room 3 inside the RPAC is just heating up. Inside, the dance team works hard perfecting routines for the next pep rally, basketball game, or National Championship Competition. While they could be dancing for other colleges and universities on full-paid scholarships, they are a part of a sports club working hard for recognition and respect in the University and the community.
New coaches and talented new members are added bonuses to the returning members’ excitement for the new season. According to Coach Katie Perry, the team’s greatest assets include a strong technical base and versatile dancers. “They’re able to easily adapt to different styles, making them very advanced dancers. They also have great stage presence and light up when they perform,” said Perry.
Perry, a former OSU Dance Team member herself, and the other coach, Stephanie Garrett, say their experiences on the team make their roles as coach much easier. Both old and new members laugh about all of the bad experiences with music problems, missing costume pieces and the general feeling that they’ve been punked. “I feel like I can run things more smoothly when I have a good idea about the type of problems and situations that could arise,” said Perry.
They also have a good understanding of and appreciation about the time and effort that each dancer puts into the team. “I know what kind of commitment it takes, and I know what a challenge it can be, so I have a lot of support for the team,” said Garrett.
Being a part of any team has its frustrations and challenges, but according to captain and senior Amanda Parker, it’s worth it. “We share experiences that most college students don’t get to, such as dancing at a sold-out Schott during basketball season, representing our school and gaining a close group of friends throughout all of it,” said Parker.
“They are a hard-working group of dancers,” said Perry, “and care a lot about their school spirit.”
It’s all baby steps, but the team has come a long way. Evidence of that can be found in a certain new member. Brien Hartings, freshman, danced his way through tryouts and onto the team, becoming the first male member of the Ohio State Dance Team. “I’m the first guy on any college dance team I’ve seen. I hope it will inspire other guy dancers to join college dance teams, and it’s fun dancing with all the ladies,” said Hartings.
NDA Collegiate Dance Camp in Louisville, Kentucky over the summer was the first chance the team had to try out the new dynamics with a male on the team, and it’s safe to say that it turned out to be successful. They placed 2nd in the Team Dance Competition in Division 1A, and earned a partial-paid bid to the NDA Collegiate National Championship in April, held at Daytona Beach, Florida. That, along with several All-American winners, helped the team make their presence felt. They hope that the excitement and enthusiasm carries throughout the year into Nationals.
Fall tryouts are being held next week, Oct. 2, 4 and 6, giving more dancers a chance to be a part of the team. One of the biggest things prospective members have to make a decision about is whether or not they are willing to make the time commitment. It is made clear during the tryouts is that practices are held three days a week and three days a week are devoted to workouts, making it no easy “club” to join.
For those who are interested in trying out for the OSU Dance Team, but who missed fall tryouts, spring auditions are listed on the website, www.ohiostatedanceteam.com.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Dancing Queens Support Fellow Athletes
By: Elyse Marozick
The Daily Titan
They are seven-time national champions going for their eighth title this January, as well as defending champions at USA Nationals in Las Vegas, and they aren't the baseball team. This is the Cal State Fullerton Dance Team, and until now, have had little recognition on campus.
As one of the relatively newer athletic organizations at CSUF, the dance team holds more championship titles under its belt than any other sports team on campus. They have also appeared on ESPN numerous times in the United Dance Association's competition held in Florida every year.
Headed by two CSUF alumni, Jennie Volkert ('97) and Sam Shen ('98), the dance team held the second and final round of auditions Tuesday night. The auditions brought out 25 hopefuls, and by the end of the night, 11 had been named members of the dance team. The team has six returning members and five freshmen, making it an extremely young team.
"We have great talent on our team this year, but we still have a lot of work ahead of us," captain Kenndra Alvarez said.
Alvarez, 20, is a three-year member of the dance team and has been named captain for the second year in a row.
Competing in Division 1, the girls have some big shoes to fill, hoping to win their eighth title this year. The girls have been hard at work since last April when the first auditions were held. In August, they attended a pro-dance camp in Palm Springs with professional teams, including the San Diego Chargers' girls. The dance camp recognizes the best of the best in the college dance world and invites only five college dance teams from across the entire country. CSUF has been invited four times and is hoping next year to be invited when the camp moves to Chicago.
Alvarez said practices have been underway every Tuesday and Thursday night since the girls got back from camp in August, but they are stepping it up a notch by beginning Sunday night practices this weekend. The team has just over a month to learn and perfect a routine that will hopefully be the winning ticket to the national competitions in January and February. The routine is submitted by video with thousands of other applicants so CSUF's team has to be outstanding to get noticed.
"The last week in October is our taping week and it's very much like hell-week for football teams," Volkert, a coach for the past 10 years, said.
From the thousands of videos submitted, judges select 25 teams to invite to the 2008 UDA Nationals in Florida from Jan. 17 to 21. The top two routines win an all-expenses paid trip to Florida for the entire team. CSUF has been one of the lucky two in the past. The team hopes to achieve top two again this year. Once in Florida, the preliminary competition narrows the teams down to the top 10 and then airs the finals on ESPN, where CSUF has come out on top seven times in the last eight years.
In February, the team will also attend the USA National Competition in Las Vegas where the girls are two-time reigning champions. They hope to keep their first place title there, as well. There they will have a run-in with their hometown rivals from Cal State Long Beach. The CSUF dance team has yet to lose to its rivals and hopes to keep it that way this year.
"Often times there is a bitter idea there [in Las Vegas] because the winner of that event gets West Coast bragging rights; so it's pretty intense," Volkert said.
The dancers' season lasts nine months out of the year and every day finds them busier than the last. Not only do they begin preparing for nationals in August, but they also find time to participate in many events throughout the community. Most recently, they performed for CSUF's 50th anniversary celebration and the OC Heart Walk, a charity event held last Sunday at the Irvine Spectrum. Their performance Sunday made it the fourth year in a row the dance team has participated in the event.
The girls also support many of the other athletic teams on campus. They attend every men's and women's basketball home game, show support at some of the men's soccer games and were asked to come out and show support at CSUF baseball games last season.
"The girls are great," Shen said. "They workout together, work really hard together and are so well-rounded. Many of them work as well as dance ... they don't get nearly as much credit as they should."
"The team bonds so well and we have no drama and no problems," Alvarez said.
Past dance team members have even gone on to have professional careers in dance. Most recently, the team had two girls named to the Laker girls and Clipper girls, Volkert and Shen said.
New freshmen are excited for their first season on an award-winning dance team. They anticipate doing well in competition, but know they all need to work together to make it happen.
"You only have that one chance with the video," Lauren Hambrick, 18, said.
Even with all the hard work in store for the next month, the girls are looking forward to supporting their fellow athletic teams as well.
"I love that we cheer at the games," Sabrina Supler, 17, said. "I cannot wait for the games."
The CSUF dance team will be performing Thursday in a Los Angeles County Fair parade highlighting college mascots.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Kyle Lavergne Blazes Trail With Ragin' Jazz
By Herman Fuselier
The Daily Advertiser
Kyle Lavergne likes to remind people that he doesn't bite, he's not mean and he's nothing special. Yet the first and only male on UL's Ragin' Jazz dance team is saddled with loads of attention.
Lavergne recalls one intoxicated UL fan yelling obscenities at him during a basketball game until the drunk was escorted from the Cajundome. Lavergne knows fans are pointing and whispering as he kicks and tumbles, surrounded by 20 females.
But Lavergne only dances harder.
"I'm pretty sure people say things, but they've never gotten in my face," said Lavergne, 20, a graduate of Carencro High School. "They try to mock you, but I'm confident in what I do and it doesn't matter. I just do my job. This is what I love to do."
Lavergne's love of dance has him in his third year with the Ragin' Jazz, the UL dance team that performs at home football, basketball and volleyball games, along with other university and alumni events. Lavergne has been one contributor in the team's success, which includes three top 10 rankings at the Universal Dance Association camp at the University of Alabama. The team will compete for the national title in dance and hip hop at the UDA championships in January.
Lavergne was team captain last year. But to teammates, he's "The Boy."
"I always come in before practice and draw all over the chalkboard," Lavergne said. "I'll write 'I love my ladies" and it says 'Love, The Boy.'
"They're my ladies and I'm The Boy."
"The Boy" has been interested in dance since the age of 3, when his mother took him to a dance studio. But the studio required ballet and Lavergne recalls his mom saying, "You're a boy. You're not taking ballet classes."
By sixth grade, Lavergne was a gymnastics power tumbler and began dancing in local studios. He continues to do studio work and even performs with the Lafayette Ballet Theater. Lavergne recently was cast for LBT's upcoming production ofThe Nutcracker production for the seventh time.
Like his teammates, Lavergne maintains a rigorous dance and exercise schedule that lasts year round. In addition to Ragin' Jazz events, most team members dance in studios and practice during the summer for camp competitions.
Lavergne can't imagine doing anything else.
"It's kind of like anything you have a passion for. It's something in you that you love to do, want to do and couldn't live without," he said.
"There's a lot of hard work and a lot of hours. I dance seven days a week this year. It gets to be a pain, with school and work. I wouldn't do it if I didn't love it."
Michelle Bernard, team choreographer and UL's spirit group coordinator, knows Lavergne's love of dance. But she was afraid "The Boy" would steal attention from the girls, resulting in a team rift.
That division hasn't happened.
"It's been goodbecause he pushes the girls, because they don't want Kyle to be the attention getter," Bernard said. "It pushes him in areas where he may lack a little.
"It's been great. Everybody at the university knows him. If they don't know his name, they know him as the boy on the dance team."
Chloe Angelle, the team's current captain, said Lavergne has been an inspiration. Angelle has known him since high school.
"When he was in high school, it was somewhat of a controversy because it had never been done before in this area," Angelle said. "I'm definitely glad to see that it happened. I respect him so much.
"Not only is he an awesome and sensational dancer, but he proves a point. He shows you do what you want to do. He deserves to be here."
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
UC Dance Team Helping One Of Its Own Beat Leukemia
GoBearcats.com
CINCINNATI--Recently a member of the UC Dance Team, Kristin Drew, was diagnosed with Leukemia. Kristin grew up in Oak Hills and then continued her education at the University of Cincinnati. In 2005, she made the UC Dance Team as a freshman and has become a dear member of the Bearcat family. She is an outstanding young lady with a bright future ahead of her. As always, Kristin continues to make jokes, laughs a lot and is in very high spirits. She is determined to beat this! Her attitude is absolutely positive and she should be an inspiration to us all.
If everything goes as planned, Kristin should have her treatment completed within two-and-a-half years. We are certain that she is going to make it through this and be an example for so many. However, we know that the road may be rough and the medical expenses involved in something like this can be overwhelming. Therefore, an account has been established called the KRISTIN DREW FOUNDATION where donations can be made to help the Drew family. The University of Cincinnati is working very closely with the dance team to help raise as much money as possible to contribute to the care and treatment of this young student-athlete.
UC has two upcoming events where donations for Kristin will be accepted. A booth will be set up at the Homecoming Game on Oct. 13 to collect donations. There will also be donation boxes at the entrances. In addition, proceeds from Bearcats Fan Jam, the official kick-off to the basketball season, will be donated to the Drew family. Admission for the event, scheduled for Oct. 20 is $5.
If you would like to make a donation to help Kristin Drew beat Leukemia you can also do one of the following:
1. A donation can be made at any Fifth Third Bank
2. Mail a check/money order to the Drew Family:
Donald & Susan Drew
5609 Windridge Drive
Cincinnati, Ohio 45248
Checks should be made payable to Kristin Drew Foundation
A donation of any size will be such a big help to the Drew family. Let's help her beat this!
Sincerely,
The UC Dance Team Coaches: Lisa Spears, Cynthia Oxley, Sarah Judge & Morgan Heflin
Team Members: Jennifer Bernier, Chelsey Billock, Libby Cates, Michelle Ciccarello, Jamie Cobb, Samantha Cobb, Tiffany Cochrane, Morgan Deitsch, Julie Dota, Lindsey Gilkey, Emily Greenstone, Kayla Greenstone, Kelsey Hamada, Brittany Jones, Julia Lamey, Jenny Malaga, Chandra Miller, Hanah Patterson, Emily Riesenberg, Samantha Spieles, Anya Spinazzola, Courtney Ward, Carrie Wiesman, Katie Ziegler & Megan Zugelder
Sunday, September 23, 2007
On Game Day, Not All Athletes Wear Cleats
By Amanda Walck
The Campus Press
Senior Jacqueline Brumley practices her routine during halftime of the Buffalo s 16-6 loss against Florida State on Saturday, Sept. 15. Brumley is an Integrated Physiology Major and is a first year member of the Cheer Squad. (CP Photo/Eli Lieberman)
At every home football game, Folsom Field is filled with fans ready to cheer the Buffs to victory.
With all the focus on the football team and their performance, people can sometimes forget about the other varsity athletes that play a huge role on game day. They are perhaps the biggest Buff fans of all -- the CU Cheer Squad and the CU Express Dance Team.
During each game, the cheer and dance teams support the Buffs and energize the fans. They thrive on the excitement of the stadium, doing what they do best in front of a huge crowd.
The cheerleaders, dance team, and Chip the mascot are collectively known as The Colorado Spirit.
For many of the cheerleaders, the beginning of the game is the most exhilarating.
"When Ralphie runs, the crowd gets so excited and pumped up. It's such a great tradition that we get to be a part of," said Amanda Yates, a senior who has been on the cheer squad for four years.
Games that involve low scores can be especially hard for The Colorado Spirit because the crowd can at times lose focus.
"When we're losing, the whole morale of the fans goes down. They disengage, and it can be really frustrating when we try to get them back into it," said Allison Meine, a senior who has also been on the cheer squad for four years.
The teams do know how to get a crowd on their feet, especially when they have something to cheer about. Members of both squads have been practicing their sport since a young age, and have a lot of experience in putting on a show.
"Pretty much everyone on the team started dancing at like age three," said Liz Harris, second year coach of the dance team.
Not only do both squads have a passion for being in front of a crowd, but they also put a lot of hard work into their sport. Each team has three-hour practices three days of the week and two-hour workouts the other two days. Practices are even more thorough in preparation for games.
"Practice is always more focused the week before a game. We work on time-outs, stunts, periods, all of it," Yates said.
Many of the girls on the dance team have recently been introduced to the rigors of a home game week. Out of the 16 girls on the team this year, 12 are freshmen. Although they have a lot of new faces, the team is looking forward to the new season.
"I have a really talented team this year," Harris said.
In addition to appearing at the home football games, the dance team performs at volleyball games and at men's and women's basketball games.
"We like the football games, but basketball is much more personal. Plus we get to dance at halftime," said Jamie Gordon, sophomore dance team member.
The male fans of the dance team seem to have the most fun at the football games.
"They'll be like 'that one's my favorite!' They'll even count it out and say '5-6-7-8!' Some guys get really into it," Harris said.
However, some guys take their love for the dance team ladies a little farther.
"It can be a little creepy. Guys like to throw us things with their numbers on them," sophomore Lauren Giangregorio said.
In addition to supporting CU teams, both the cheer squad and the dance team compete nationally every year. In 2007, the cheerleaders will be going to the National Cheerleading Association championship in Daytona Beach, Fla., and the dance team will attend the National Dance Association competition.
"Competitions are my favorite part of the season. I'd say probably 70 percent of us are that way," junior Justin Gibbs said.
To raise money for the squad, the dance team shot a calendar, which will be available before the end of the football season.
Competitions and games aside, the role of the cheer squad at CU encompasses something much more important.
"We have a huge presence in the community, and we have been able represent CU in such a positive way. That is so important to our program," Head Coach Travis Prior said.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Dancers Strut Their Stuff At UNC Tryouts
The Daily Tar Heel
While growing up in Chapel Hill, junior Mandy Brannon always wanted to be a part of the UNC dance team.
"I came here for this," Brannon said after strutting, leaping and turning across the floor of Eddie Smith Field House on Wednesday with 45 other dancers at the team's open tryouts.
It was her third time auditioning.
Dancers are required to have jazz, pom, and hip-hop dance skills.
But the first part of the tryout focused on traditional dance technique.
"Although the fall tryouts are open, the requirements remain the same," coach Mark Lyczowski said.
Lyczowski said he judges the girls on flexibility, technique, strength and style.
"People usually only see what we do on the field and court," assistant coach Amber Rogers said. "They don't realize we compete and do technical shows."
Because the new dance Web site listed requirements, dancers were better prepared this year, Lyczowski said.
Even so, a few hastily taught each other to pirouette just before the auditions. Others walked away.
Most dancers who showed up for the tryouts, however, said they have been in the business since they could walk.
"They're at a level that's so elite," said Brannon, who has danced for most of her life. "You have to bring it."
The dancers will know by this morning whether they will make the cut.
No list will be posted. Dancers will either be e-mailed or told personally whether they're in.
Not many dancers get on the team through the open tryouts.
"The number of people we accept really depends on who shows up," Lyczowski said.
For the past three fall auditions, that number has been zero. The dance team usually selects its members after spring auditions, which are by invitation.
In order to get an invite, dancers must e-mail a resume with their dance experience to the coach after their admission to the University.
But the team still regularly holds tryouts in the fall for those who weren't around in the spring or weren't trained well enough to make the team.
"I owe it to the University to continue to try to find the most talented dancers," Lyczowski said.
UNC's dance team ranks first in the ACC and third in the nation.
And of the team's 16 members, 10 earned an All-American title at a national dance camp.
"We've been very fortunate to get a lot of talent on the team without recruitment," Lyczowski said.
Freshman Jane Chaffee, one of the most recent additions to the team, traveled this summer to the dance camp.
"Its a great group of girls," Chaffee said.
But while waiting to be called up to dance for the coaches, junior Katie Hukill admitted that she felt a little intimidated.
"There's a lot of really talented girls," Hukill said, adding that although she's been doing ballet her entire life she feels a bit unqualified. "It's a little discouraging because I don't have the jazz experience."
After two hours of technical evaluation, Lyczowski came back with a list of the cuts, and several formerly optimistic dancers went home. The remaining few were taught a combo to evaluate style.
"I take it as a learning experience," Brannon said after her number wasn't called. "You don't make it, and you come back."
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Idaho State Bengal Dancers Feature
By Todd Itami
ISU Bengal
The 2007 USA Hip Hop champions are one of ISU's most valuable assets. These 17 girls are truly amazing.
It can be conceived that perhaps in some remote notion of the idea of the University's dance team that they are just a group of really good looking girls who also know how to dance. This somewhat chauvinistic stereotype is immediately put to rest once you put forth any effort to discover the true nature of the group.
The first thing that stood out to me with the group is the intense level of physical and mental effort put into the team. Not only do the dancers work-out, take dance classes, and teach dance on their own, but they are required to practice another 9 hours with the team (12 hours during competition season).
On top of team dance practices, there are also four hours a weak of team work outs including weight training, spinning, ballet, and aerobics! Add this to the week-long summer dance camp and showing up a month before school starts for daily practices, and you have one of the hardest working groups of students on campus.
If we were to end the dialog here, I would hope that you would be sufficiently impressed, but there's more.
We could all take a page out of the fundraising book of the Bengal dancers. Each girl is expected to contribute to the fundraising effort. By day one of school, the dancers had already raised some $11,000 for this academic year. With shirts, calendars, performances, commercial appearances, kids clinics, choreography workshops with high schools, and a end of year dance concert, this team is the top fundraising group pound-for-pound on campus.
But they get a scholarship right? Well, yes, they do get a $750 scholarship each semester. I find it ironic that most of the girls have fundraised that much before midterm of the first semester. In fact, each girl is furthermore required to pay several hundred dollars in equipment and other dance related expenses.
Not only do they win national championships and place runner-up in the national NDA competition in Florida for the last three years, but they are SMART! Bengal dancers are academics. Accounting, dental hygiene, radiographic science, and nutrition are just a few of the competitive programs that Bengal dancers graduate in each year.
The student coach Lindsay Tucker for example, was accepted to Harvard as an undergrad and is currently a doctorial candidate in the Audiology department.
Dana Smith, owner of one of the largest and most successful dance studios in Pocatello, DSDS said, "A lot of my girls aspire to be on the Bengal Dance team from a young age." The dancers are definitely a community influence interacting with high school and youth groups, not to mention other community organizations. The Bengal Dancers are an invaluable tool for recruiting and improving Idaho State University.
So much more can be said about this dance team. I am just totally impressed by the level of dedication to our university by these girls. If we only had more students like the dancers.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Georgia Red Hotz To Compete At Nationals
RedandBlack.com
The Red Hotz, the University's competitive dance team, already has received a bid to attend the National Dance Association (NDA) College Nationals competition in April.
The 12 members of the Red Hotz dance team traveled to Myrtle Beach, S.C., the weekend of Aug. 17 to attend the "NDA Cheer and Danz Camp."
Teams traveled across the nation from universities such as Penn State and NYU to take part in the weekend's rigorous dance schedule.
Not only did the Red Hotz walk away with a bid to Nationals but also four individual nominations for All-American titles.
Team captain Kate Nichols, a junior from Marietta, and Katelyn Andrews, also a junior from Marietta, were named All-Americans.
"We had 11 hours in the car, 25 hours of dancing and several hours of working past fatigue and frustration," Nichols said. "It all resulted in All-American titles, a spirit stick, a blue ribbon, a bid to Nationals and, most importantly, learning how to support and respect each other and have fun together."
The Red Hotz continue to be the only team in their division to compete without a coach.
"A lot of people don't know that we are student-led. We don't have a coach," said lieutenant Lauren Kelley, a sophomore from Roswell. "It can definitely be a challenge, but a good challenge."
Nichols agreed.
"Some may think that not having a coach is a disadvantage. But honestly, it teaches all of us how to use our own individual strengths to best benefit the team," she said.
Although competitions do not begin until the spring, the Red Hotz already are planning for the upcoming season.
"I would really like UGA to know our name better this year through more performances around campus and Athens," said co-captain Orian Edelman, a senior from Roswell.
Last year, along with participating in regular competitions and placing fourth at the NDA Nationals, the team performed at University philanthropic events such as HERO and Greek Grind.
"We have 12 very talented dancers that love to perform and represent UGA on a regional and national level," Nichols said.