Have you attended any Chardon High School basketball games this season? If so, then you’ve been watching the success story of Christina Meyer, a junior at Chardon, who finally achieved her dream of beginning a dance team for the high school. “I started this Dance Team because I have always had a passion for many kinds of dance,” says Christina who hasn’t been involved much in school activities, but wanted the chance to showcase the talent many girls have through such an opportunity.
“My sister Sara had attempted to start the team in previous years, and I had also tried last year. Even though it didn’t succeed, my captain, Lizz McNaughton, had encouraged me to try it one last time. I had never stopped wanting it and I’m happy that it finally succeeded,” Christina shares.
The girls who were interested in joining the team had to attend all of the clinics to learn a routine which she performed for the judges during the audition. There is no limit on the number of members at this point. Thirteen are currently on the team, and they have learned a number of different routines to keep the audience entertained during performances.
“Those who don’t make the team, I offer them help to improve their skills in order to have a better chance the upcoming year. They are also welcome to join ‘Dance,’ the dance studio in Chardon.” Christina recommends taking the hip hop classes she teaches at the studio to work on basic techniques she uses in her routines. These also help with general coordination and are for anyone interested in hip hop whether they are on the team or not.
This year opened with their first performance on December 20, 2013, at the basketball game. They have also participated in school assemblies, which she hopes to do more of, including pep rallies. “The crowd, including parents, students, and staff, have supported us at all our performances,” says Christina.
When asked about the rewards of starting this team, she shares, “ Being a part of the team, I get to express my talent, teach it, and watch it spread.”
The most challenging part has been juggling school, teaching at the studio, and coaching the team. “But it’s all worth it!” she says. “I love seeing smiles on my team’s faces when we are in practice and when their faces light up from the reactions the crowd gives.”
Though there have been no outside performances as of yet, Christina has been trying to arrange for the team to perform for the middle and elementary schools. Other plans are in the works as well. “I plan on continuing the team and also coaching, even after I graduate. It is also in my future plans to look into taking the team to competitions.”
If you’re curious about what Christina has dreamed into existence or have a daughter who’s interested in hip hop, be sure to attend the home games on February 8 and 14. The games start at 7:30 p.m. and they perform around 8:00.
If you have any questions, call Christina Meyer at the Chardon Dance Studio at 440-286-5060.
You can find Hip-Hop class times on the class page of the Dance website.
Dance
602 South Street
Chardon, Ohio
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