The Tigerettes opened the competition portion of their season this month with a strong showing at their first event of the year in Farmington. Republic finished fourth in pom and second in hip hop. Both routines received superior ratings, the highest score classification for each dance. The Tigerettes, also earned a best costume award for their hip hop routine.
Senior Sabella Howard said the pom routine has stood out early in the season.
“My favorite dance is our pom routine because our tricks and skills in the dance match with our music really well,” Howard said. “I also enjoy the sharp movements.”
Howard said competition days give the team extended time together away from practice.
“During competitions, I spend a lot of time with my team,” she said. “We all have a really good bond and are able to stay positive.”
She said the first competition reinforced the importance of how routines are presented to judges.
“From our first competition, I learned that projecting is incredibly important,” Howard said. “It is not just about smiling and having large facials, but projecting yourself towards the judges.”
Sophomore Ellee Hickman said hip hop is her favorite routine because of the flexibility it allows performers.
“My favorite dance is our hip hop dance because there is more freedom to add your own personality,” Hickman said. “It is entertaining to watch and the music is very fun.”
Hickman said she enjoys the moments leading up to performances and the feedback afterward.
“I really enjoy the anticipation and how our team prepares right before we perform at a competition,” she said. “It is also always very entertaining to hear what the judges had to say about our dance afterwards.”
She said the opening meet emphasized the importance of mindset heading into performances.
“From our previous competition I learned to keep a positive mindset especially right before we compete,” Hickman said. “This makes me feel more confident when I am dancing.”
The Tigerettes will continue their competition season this weekend.
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