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Thursday, November 6, 2008
Dance, Dance
Central Kansas, KS
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By: Juliana Phillips, VYPE Central Kansas
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Photo(s) By: Courtesy
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A former Maize Fly Girl revisits her old stomping grounds
Not stepping foot into a Maize Eagle Fly Girl practice in five years, I was unsure of what to expect. First things first, a lot of change; something I did anticipate.
Coming from a time when being a fly girl was a new thing to do, dance is now a legitimate tag and an activity to be reckoned with. Years of transformation have taken place. Their wholesome approach as a squad has gotten them far at camp and on the field without tampering with their character.
The Eagles represented well at National Dance Association camp over the summer where they took second place overall out of 37 teams. They were also awarded the spirit stick while Allie Dysart, Devon Tracy and Meghan Wiley got All-American nominations. Wiley and Tracy went home new All-Americans.
On a squad of 14, three seniors lead the way for this reputable squad.
“Our first year was a rough start. Now we get compliments on our squad. It’s changed a lot,” says Wiley.
Changes such as closed tryouts, traditional dinners before games and resorting to only red, black and white attire for performances – it has all worked in altering the perception of the fly girl and creating a more unified squad on and off the field.
“It’s cool – we have traditions,” says freshman Allie Welch.
“We get along so well this year,” senior Tracy said.
Thirty-four girls showed up to the four-day tryout at the beginning of the year where the girls were critiqued on technique, showmanship and what potential they could offer the upcoming squad.
“I tried out my freshman year and didn’t make it. The upperclassmen were encouraging and helpful to help me to come back and tryout again,” says sophomore Kelsey McCandless.
Coaches from surrounding schools, owners of dance studios and previous dancers come to judge the closed audition where they try to keep it as confidential as possible, keeping out individuals who have no connection to the try-out.
Since redirecting their attention from outfits and status to just dance, the fly girls have excelled in their technique and come into their own.
Fourth-year coach Lori Heger has had a hand in installing the current mold, inciting a flicker of new light on the Maize dance team. After starting out at Pleasant Valley Junior High, Heger joined the Maize program in 2006, eager to offer stability and consistency in order for the Eagles to utilize their talents and produce outstanding dances.
“I am very proud of the program. When you raise the bar high, the students will perform to meet your expectations. I love what I do,” says Heger.
The girls are gorgeous, but they’re able to shine through their dance ability rather than their appearance. Which is why you try out for a dance team right?
“We’re getting to reach our potential now,” said senior Wiley.
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