Kaitlynn Hudden and Lauren Myslinski are the coaches of the Canisius College Dance Team from Buffalo, New York, known as The Dance Griffs. They describe The Dance Griffs as a dance team that performs at all of Canisius’ home men and women’s basketball games. At basketball games, their goal is to bring entertainment and enthusiasm to the Canisius fans. They also participate in volunteer opportunities and local competitions. Canisius College is a small school with a big heart and their dance team takes pride in all of their athletic teams.
Kaitlynn and Lauren strive to provide a dance team where girls become family and are elevated from school stressors. The members of the team are able to enjoy dancing, while having fun and forming close relationships.
In Kaitlynn’s and Lauren’s opinion, one of their biggest differences from other dance teams is their pure dedication for their team, school and dance. Every girl on the team holds a high level of respect for their teammates and the Canisius College Golden Griffins. Their ultimate goal is to both have fun and enjoy dancing for their school. This is proven through their performances. Therefore, one of their biggest differences from other dance teams is their pure dedication for their team, school and dance.
Seeing choreography evolve from an idea to a great performance is Kaitlynn’s and Lauren’s proudest moment coaching. All the girls work hard to perfect the given dances, and as a coach this is very rewarding. The dancers put in just as much work as Kaitlynn and Lauren do, and it certainly pays off!
Kaitlynn and Lauren believe that the biggest mistakes they see dancers make has to do with the attitude towards themselves and others and the fact that it is not always positive. This is something that brings the atmosphere down significantly. If dancers are not happy, they find that there is more of a competitive feel within the team. If everyone is working towards the same goal in a positive manner while encouraging others, the team will be more successful on and off the court. “Believe in yourself and others; you will shine!”
Their overall goal for this year is to take the Dance Griffs to a higher level in technique, choreography and performance.
They find that a lot of girls age-out of their dance studio after high school. The Dance Team was created to build an outlet for girls who want to continue their dance training. It is a great stress relief and way to form strong relationships amongst their teammates. Performing at events is a wonderful way to stay healthy and have fun!
Kaitlynn, Lauren and The Dance Griffs would love for a stronger support system from their fellow Canisius students and fans. This is also something that they are trying to build throughout the seasons. The coaches and dancers are dedicated to their school, the athletic department and their team. They appreciate any support they receive in return.
The Dance Griffs have earned many honors. In 2012, they were the Cheersport 1st place champions; the 1st place champions, overall grand champion in college division at the JDRF Cheer for a Cure; and the 1st place national champions in the US Finals. In 2013, they were the 1st place champions in the JDRF Cheer for a Cure. In 2015, they were the: 1st place champions at the JDRF Cheer for a Cure and the 1st place national champions at the US Finals.
They are looking forward to a fantastic season supporting their Griffs!
If you would like more information about Canisius College, visit their website at www.canisius.edu. You can also “Like” them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CanisiusCollegeDanceGriffs, Tweet them on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Dance_Griffs and view them on bing.com/videos and YouTube.
Anyone who has danced with The Dance Griffs is invited to comment on their blog.
Believe in yourself and others; you will shine!
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