Power, Determination, and Trust; factors that build the Padua Dance Team, also known as “PDT.” Their confidence sparks the eyes of the audience while their dance moves add on to the “wow” factor they bring. Coached by two amazing dancers, Tori Closson and Todd Munoz, the Padua Dance Team season began on May 24 of last school year, after acceptance letters were received.

“If I could choose one word to describe dance team, it would be family. Just like what we say during our lovely team meetings, dance team is like no other sport.  We’re a family and even when we go off to college, we never fully leave, we only move away.” These wise words from Brianna Vansickel (‘16) are continually spoken during seminars, practices, and reunions with  PDT alumni. Meanwhile, fellow freshman and rookie Mary Shannon Donnelly (‘18) agree that the team has such a welcoming sense and that the transition into the team was easy for her and other enthusiastic newbies.

“I love the dance team and being back makes me so happy. Everyday at practice, the team makes me feel so at home, and I wouldn’t imagine school without it,” says sophomore Bailey Tuschinski (‘17). Additionally, many other team members would agree that their heart belongs to PDT and will always carry around the experience and the lessons they learned from it. The confidence they have established and the belief that everything is possible with hard work and perseverance is what make these ladies ready to venture into a new journey.  When asked about what she is going to miss the most about PDT, captain and senior Jennifer Jordan (‘15)  had said, “Of all the experiences with PDT, I’m going to miss our inside jokes together. Whenever I’m with the team we are always laughing at something and having a great time. I’ll also miss the feeling of performing on the court with my girls.”

Outside of the sassy and “all up in your face” routines is a group of outgoing and confident girls that catch everyone’s eyes from a mile away. Jen exclaims, “I think Coach Tori and Coach Todd really molded me to be the woman I am today. They have been my motivators and inspirations through this whole journey with dance team.” Bailey also agrees stating, “I love how I can be who I am and they accept me for who I am. I don’t have to worry about being judged.”

The team’s first performance of the 2014-2015 school year was a sensation; one could tell because of the roaring crowd and surprisingly was cheered on not only by the Padua’s families and friends, but also the opposing team’s fans and guests. The group’s energy level was off the charts as they added style and attitude to the routine called “JUMP,” a piece that caused a “Panda”monium throughout the bleachers. The following Tuesday, the team danced to Iggy Azalea’s “Bounce” in front of a tougher crowd, the fans and students of St. Marks. However, it did not stop the girls from dancing their hearts out and having a blast! Undoubtedly, their first two performances of the season started out strong and are only getting better.

    Padua Dance Team has gone so far and has become the phenomenon it is today because of the love, the 100% dedication, and the performances given in practices and on the court.  As their motto states:  “Power, Determination, and Trust; I am PDT.”