brookSport VOL 2 | Page 8

Melinda Copolla one of the coaches of the Platinum Dance Team at Pebblebrook High and has been whipping her team in shape for the past month. "I think competitive dance teams should be considered a sport, she says. "As a dancer, you have to physically be in shape and continue to grow as a dancer. It takes time to develop the skills needed to dance and compete. The dancers put in extra time outside

of practice to work on their skills too. The team has to be trusting of one another and come together to put on a performance. There are shows that are for entertainment purposes, but there are other shows where the team competes."

And just like cheerleading, she says, they get to practice on the field and compete on the weekend against other teams. "The dance

teams have the opportunity to practice routines during half times or for charity purposes, but compete on weekends against other dance teams. They are scored just like any other team based on technique, creativity, and execution." She says she doesn't see much of a difference and does not understand why it is not considered a sport. What do you think?

Platinum Dance Team

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