Taking a Look at SHS's Dance Team
In honor of having a Winter Night Rally, We had the opportunity to interview the SHS Dance team Coach, Erika Martinez on their dance routines and on any advice for any student that is interested in joining next school year. We also would like to give them the recognition they deserve for all their hard work and for all the time and thought they put into making these uplifting dances.
AD: What goes into the process of making a routine?
Erika Martinez: So much goes into the process, it’s hard to narrow it down. We go from finding the right beats to trying to make a mix that flows to finding the right and appropriate moves, to making formations and then constantly perfecting it. It never ends.
AD: What do you try and incorporate in their dances?
Erika Martinez: I would say that most of the time we try and incorporate a little of everything. We’ve done hip hop, lyrical and even a little bit of Spanish to kind of get every type of crowd interested. Our job is to show our passion for dance and that’s what these girls do. They just want to get the crowd going.
AD: Do you enjoy being a dance coach? If so why?
Erika Martinez: Yes I do, I think I can speak for both me and my mom when I say mainly because we get to watch these girls grow so much throughout the years. When you sign up to be a coach nobody really understands how hard it is until you’ve done it yourself. It’s a lot of time and commitment, a lot of smiles, a lot of frustration, but it is one of the most rewarding things in the long run. To think that you could possibly impact someone’s life for the best is one of the most satisfying feelings.
AD: Which has been your favorite performance this year?
Erika Martinez: Usually my favorite dance routines are Homecoming routines. That’s when we try and incorporate every style of dance that we can do. A lot of time and thought go into those routines specifically because this is one of the biggest nights in the school year for them, and my girls always know how to make it come to life.
AD: How long have you been the Dance Coach for SHS?
Erika Martinez: I started the Dance team my senior year in 2009-2010 with my advisor Linda Johnson who was my teacher and mentor. The following 3 years after that I coached and then moved away. That’s when my mom took it over for me. I came back about 3 years ago and we’ve been doing it together ever since.
AD: What advice would you give to those students who are considering joining the dance team?
Erika Martinez: The most important advice I can give to students considering trying out is the same advice I give my girls. Alway give your 100% because that is the first thing that catches my eye. You don’t have to be the best but I can guarantee you that if you give me your all and you show me that you really are passionate about it, you will not go unnoticed.
2017 Dance Team members:
Nallely Beltran, 12th
Marisa Sanchez, 12th
Dominique Landeros, 12th
Monica Chavez, 11th
Rocio lara, 11th
Jasmine Lucero, 11th
Kyana Alonzo, 11th
Vanessa Nungaray, 11th
Mariah Carillo, 11th
Lyla Alderete, 11th
Melissa Melo, 10th
Yamelly Maya, 9th
Leslie Estrada, 9th
Dance Team Coaches:
Monica Medina
Erica Martinez