For the first time in school history, the Oswego Pantherette Dance Team qualified to attend the Universal Dance Association (UDA) camp this June in Memphis, TN.
“The Universal Dance Association is a national organization recognized through every program in the nation,” said Pantherette Dance Captain Amelia Goehring.
The Universal Dance Association summer camp hones in on dance techniques to further enhance the Pantherette’s routine. The camp also evaluates the set routine that the Pantherettes performed during the summer, providing feedback and critiques.
“After attending UDA, we were able to learn new ways to improve our team in the future,” said Jazzline Abella, another Pantherette Dance Captain. “I feel that after attending UDA, we have new ways of knowing how to make our program grow.”
Although their qualification is great news, it is not surprising due to the Oswego Pantherettes performance during the OH halftime show. However, people do not usually understand how long it takes to assemble such a great performance.
“It typically takes at least two to three practices lasting from two to three hours a day to learn each routine,” said Abella. This kind of practice and dedication exemplifies the Pantherette’s determination and drive to sustain themselves in such rigorous rehearsals.
Qualifying for a national summer camp also meant a lot to the Patherettes themselves.
“Our team felt very happy and excited about the news. It was a great way for our school and team to be recognized at UDA this past summer,” Abella said.
Having the Pantherettes go above and beyond by representing OH during the halftime performance and throughout the nation matters a great deal to the OH community. As the Pantherettes settle into their new season, fans wonder what comes next for the team.
Abella’s mission is to “make the rest of the season memorable by cheering on our school and supporting other programs.”
Because the Pantherettes earned attendance at UDA, this set a new high standard for their program. Panthertte Captain Josette Sowers said, “In the near future, more student-choreographed pieces will be making a debut, as our team values allowing every dancer the opportunity to create something to show on the team. We also believe allowing students to choreograph gives everyone a chance to learn or gain leadership qualities.”
