Memphis Roar

Over the next few weeks, Memphis Roar will be introducing the members of the 2009-2010 pom squad one by one, letting you in on some of the things outside of dance that drive these young ladies. Meet Caitlin.

Caitlin is a freshman Exercise Science/ Sports Management major from Castle Rock, Colorado. She has been dancing since she was just 3 years old. Caitlin came to the University of Memphis because of the Pom squad’s reputation. Check out the following Q&A for a look inside the Memphis Pom Squad and more information on Dance Team member Caitlin.

Q: What is the biggest difference between dance in college versus high school/all-star?

A: “For me, the hardest part was the transition period from high school to college. College dance opens up an entirely new world of being in the ‘big leagues’ that I was never used to. Its not just the parent/student support system anymore like it was in high school. The entire community, city, students, faculty, alum and boosters are fully involved in the program and keep the Tiger Spirit positive in every way possible. Walking into the Liberty Bowl for our first Football game, or cheering courtside to our nationally known Basketball Team was the biggest rush of  nervousness and excitement I won’t ever forget. The biggest difference to me was getting used to the professionalism and lively spirit that the U of M is known for.”

Q: Most memorable moment in collegiate dance career?

A: “Establishing MPDT : Memphis Pom Dream Team. We couldn’t have been where we are now without everyone pulling their own weight and striving for success everyday at practice. I love my teammates.”

Q: Most embarrassing moment in college career?

A: “I had to think about this for a while, but haven’t had a huge one yet… cross your fingers”

Q: Most influential person in your life and why?

A: “Hands down, my older brother. He was the one who always made me remember who I was and where I came from. I have always looked to him for advice and he has been a major role model in my life. He told me I should go for my dream, which was being on Memphis Pom.”

Q: My career ambition is:

A: “To work for a professional sports team, dealing with events, fundraisers, athletes and promotions.”

Q: I live by the following motto:

A: ” ‘ Through God all things are possible,’ Matthew 19:24.”

Q: Favorite course in school and why?

A: “Sociology because my professor is the COOLEST college professor ever.”

Q: Least favorite course and why?

A: “One word: MATH. No explanation needed ”

Q: Favorite tv show:

A: “CAKE BOSS! Yum.”

Q: Favorite hobbies:

A: “SLEEPING, snowboarding (Rocky Mountains.. hello), exercising and eating TCBY with my 2 best friends.”

Q: Favorite sports team growing up:

A: “Nebraska Huskers Football.”

Q: Favorite actor and actress?

A: “Johnny Depp (what a pirate!) and Rachel McAdams.”

Q: Favorite vacation spot:

A: “Anywhere warm with the sun beaming and beach chairs to lay the day away!”

Q: Favorite holiday and why?

A: “Christmas Season-New Years. It so magical with all the lights, friends and family. I never want to leave home!!”

Q: Best advice to give someone who wants to be a college dancer:

A: “Don’t knock it before you try it. Push yourself to accomplish any goal you have!”

Q: No one knows this about me but…

A: “When i was little, i cut my bangs too short to curl them, so for 3 months in 4th grade i had to SPIKE my bangs. Yes, i was a little girl and my bangs were SPIKED.”

Q: Is dancing a sport, why or why not?

A: “Absolutely. I think that dancers are some of the most fit athletes there are due to motions, jumps, technique and rhythm needed for this sport. Along with basketball or soccer, the sport of dance has competitions, rules and regulations, bragging rights and of course, teams. I think dancers are underestimated by many, but still have the same passion for their sport (or even more) as any other athletes out there.”

* Simple click on the photographs for a full-size version.