Each month we will set out to spotlight teams we have had the privilege of mixing music for by inquiring about their background and what makes them the team they are.
Each dance team is different and special in their own way! SAMS Dance Team is by far one of the most talented middle school teams we've ever come across. Not to mention they are our 2017 Music Makeover Winners! They win countless awards at competitions and their coach is one in a million. We had the pleasure of speaking with Jodey Bruno, Head Coach, to get her take on what makes this Wildcat Dance Team such a powerhouse.
ST. AMANT MIDDLE SCHOOL WILDCAT DANCE TEAM
ST. AMANT, LOUISIANA
Jodey Bruno – Head Coach
Rebecca Graungard – Assistant Coach
Kelli Hopper – Accountant
How did you become involved in this program?
14 years ago when I started teaching here, I wanted to bring my love of dance to the St. Amant Middle community. So I asked my then principal, Mr. Van Lamber, if I could start a team – and thus the Wildcat dance team was born.
What do you look for in a team member?
Although judges pick the team each year, I am looking for candidates who “bring it” to tryouts. Technique is important but showmanship is a MUST. Students must have acceptable grades and be model students behaviorally.
In the history of your program, what would be your biggest accomplishment?
I think in the 14 years I’ve coached this team, our biggest accomplishment was placing 5th overall in a competition in Texas, competing against 47 other teams – including high schools and private schools! Our jazz routine was chosen as one of only THREE routines to receive a WOW factor award, out of over 100 routines.
What are some rituals the team does before a performance?
Our team ALWAYS starts with a prayer circle where we hold hands, point our right foot, and I lead the team in prayer!
As a team, what has been something you’ve had to overcome?
Middle school can be rough so sometimes friendship issues come up on the team. We never seem to have anywhere to practice at school so we squeeze into the hallway lobbies.
What is your definition of a successful team?
A successful team means we work hard at EVERY practice ALL the time. And we leave it on the floor for every performance. A trophy does not define success – hard work and determination are our trophies.
What teams do you look up to?
We LOVE to watch the STA Gatorettes (St. Amant High), our big sis team! They KILL it every year and many of my girls go on to become Gatorettes.
What motivates the team to bring 100% effort to the program?
My team seems to be self-motivated for the most part, but they know that if they slack on effort, we will run and receive demerits. In order to compete, they know that they have to give me their ALL during football season, or we won’t compete!
What are some things that this team brings to the table that you consider valuable?
I think the SAMS dance team brings a level of dance unprecedented in the middle school division. Many of my girls can perform skills only seen on a high school level. I think our choreographers are SPOT on and this is made possible because you guys provide us with THE BEST music in the industry!
What are you hoping to accomplish as a team this season?
This year, we are aiming to attend NATIONALS for the first time EVER.
