As a cheerleader, I’ve always loved watching our dazzling counterparts on the WHS Dance Team, always captivating the crowd with their killer choreography. Today, I’m interviewing the talented sophomore, Mia Chambers, to get a glimpse into the fascinating world of a Westmont dancer.
Cambria: “First off, how many people are on the team this year?”
Mia: “This year we have 15 people, so that’s 3 more than last year.”
Cambria: “Who are the captains on the team?”
Mia: “Kaitlynn is our captain, Mami is co-captain, and Chiara is first lieutenant.”
Cambria: “What are your goals this year for yourself and for the team?”
Mia: “A personal goal is to grow technically and work on my confidence as a dancer. My goal for our team this year is to become closer, especially with new members, as well as making it to nationals.”
Cambria: “How often are your practices?”
Mia: “Our practices are 3 days a week for 2 hours.”
Cambria: “What’s your favorite part of being a part of the team? What’s the most challenging part?”
Mia: “My favorite part about being on the team is getting to experience performing with the team and with my friends. A definite challenge is balancing school work while still trying to practice dances and choreography.”
Cambria: “Do you have any pre-performance rituals or traditions?”
Mia: “Haha, yes! Our big and little buddies always exchange gifts before every game. The gifts include our favorite drinks and snacks, sometimes little stuffed animals, too. We also always have a group pep talk, encouraging and reminding the team to do great before we walk on.”
Cambria: “You mentioned having bigs and littles on the team. Could you elaborate on how that system works?”
Mia: “Of course! Our spirit leader, Claire, pairs upperclassmen with underclassmen, becoming big/little pairs. This year we are even, so I am paired with a sophomore, but it still works! This system helps us bond, and everyone gives their bigs and littles advice at practice.”
Cambria: “Who on your team is the best at keeping everyone’s energy up?”
Mia: “I would say Daisy Gant. She is very spirited and always keeps everyone’s spirits up, also hyping and cheering everyone on.”
Cambria: “What’s something most people don’t realize about being on the team?”
Mia: “I think most people don’t realize how much work we put into our routines during the season. We are very serious about working on our technique to perfect our choreography.”