I love speaking to teams from all over the U.S. There are some questions I always ask the Coach/Teacher of that team. For instance, I like to knowwhat makes their team different.In this case, I spoke with Poms Coach BeckyGrassner from Overland High School in Colorado.Becky told me that what makes her team different is that before joining most of her girls had never taken a dance class,or at the most,had very minimal dance experience. She also stated that as a high school dance team they don’t have the access to dancestudios that private teams have. Also, for the most part the socio-economicstatus of her students is much lower than those in other schools. To keep her team motivated, Becky tells her girls to “dance from their heartand soul” and to “dance like there is no tomorrow.” She makes it a point to get to know each and every one of her girls on an individual basis. Becky makes sure that they know she is always there for them. As a result, they trust and respect her and give her their all – 110%. Becky told me that in her opinion, the biggest mistake dancers make is nothaving confidence in themselves. They need to realize that they are not onlydancing for themselves but for their team and their school, also. She said,“They have 2 1/2 minutes to dance for their life. That is all I ask.”As far as good dancewear is concerned, Becky feels it needs to be comfortable,easy to move in, and fits the style of the dance.Overland High School’s goals this year are to maintain the positive image theyhave established within their school and community. It has taken them a few years to gain this respect and it is something they value and treasure. Whetherthey win or lose, they represent Overland High School. That is what’s mostimportant to them!
Becky’s proudest moment in coaching at Overland High School is when they wonback to back state championships, and placed 11th the very first time they hadgone to Nationals.But more important to her is the everlasting relationshipsshe makes and maintains. Way to go, Becky!
By Cyndi Marziani Owner
Bailar dancewear
