For the first time in our NFL Cheerleader Series history, we finally got a chance to sit down for a fun Q & A with a Miami Dolphins Cheerleader (MDC) and we were lucky enough to spend some time chatting with Monica, a Miami native and third-year veteran on the squad.
Monica says each year with the team gets better and better, and she’s a shining example of the class and enthusiasm that comes along with being a cheerleader in the NFL. Not to mention she can probably kick your butt at the bowling alley and outperform you to any Beyonce song.
Man Cave Daily: Tell me about your day-to-day life–are you in school, do you have a full-time job?
Monica: I’m currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in marketing and I have been working in the finance department of a bank for the last three years. I’ve been a cheerleader since I was five and have always dreamed of becoming a Miami Dolphins Cheerleader. Before becoming a MDC, I was a season ticket holder along with ten of my family members. My life has always been surrounded by football since I come from a huge family (all Miami Dolphins fans).
MCD: Let’s be honest–have you ever gone onto the field and forgotten your routine?
M: Everyone makes mistakes, and trust me–when you’re on the field, you can get very distracted by fans and all the noise! But forgotten a routine? Never! Little mess-ups here and there as a rookie, but as a veteran you practice so much it becomes muscle memory.
MCD: If you had a reality TV show, what channel would it be on?
M: HGTV because of my passion for interior decorating.
MCD: Miley, Taylor or Beyonce?
M: One hundred percent Queen B! Beyoncé is a triple threat: great mom, amazing performer and the epitome of a strong, independent woman.
MCD: What song instantly puts you in a good mood?
M: “Chicken Fried” by Zac Brown Band–a major reason is because it’s played at every home game when we honor our military.
MCD: If I gave you two plane tickets anywhere in the world–where are you going and who are you taking?
M: That’s easy; I’m going to Greece and taking my boyfriend!
MCD Monica, Striking a Pose (Photo: Courtesy Miami Dolphins)
MCD: Favorite thing about your city?
M: My favorite thing about Miami has to be the beaches. The water is crystal clear, always so warm and you leave with the best tan!
MCD: When I say the letter “T” what’s the first word that comes to mind?
M: TEAM–I spend everyday with them, practice with them, travel with them, and hangout with them; I do everything with them!
MCD: App you use most?
M: Definitely Instagram. I love pictures and looking at all my friend’s posts. It’s a great way nowadays to stay connected and in the loop.
MCD: If you could go to dinner with any celebrity/athlete, who and why?
M: I would totally go out to dinner with Rachel McAdams because I’m a huge fan of all her movies, and she’s an outstanding actress.
MCD: During the off-season, what does your perfect Sunday look like?
M: Out on the water with my family. Fishing, boating, snorkeling, cruising; you name it, we’re out there!
Bod Goals (Photo: Courtesy Miami Dolphins)
MCD: Heels or flats?
M: Heels, there’s nothing like feeling confident in some black pumps!
MCD: What’s your one (top-secret until now!) beauty hack or trick?
M: Coming back from halftime, having only five seconds to change and touch up our hair/makeup–baby powder is my top beauty secret! It absorbs the moisture in your scalp and makes your hair look brand new!
MCD: Tell me something about you people would find completely interesting/out of character?
M: People may not know but I love bowling. My dad has been a PBA bowler for many years and growing up, we would spend our Saturday mornings at the bowling alley, practicing. Till this day, it’s still a Saturday routine!
MCD: A quote or mantra you’re totally vibing on right now?
M: “Some people want it to happen, some people wish it would happen, and some people make it happen.”
MCD: Fill in these sentences:
I wish more people in this world would give back without expecting something in return.
I can’t get enough of Cuban food!
Yoga pants are the best pants.
The single coolest moment as an NFL cheerleader was cheering on the field in London.
What I love most about myself is my family. I’m blessed to be surrounded by such loving and inspiring people.
Follow our smoking hot (and friendly) MDC on Twitter: @MDC__Monica and then check out her bonus gallery!
The original article ran on CBS Man Cave Daily and is part of an annual NFL cheerleader series to showcase the unique women on the sidelines. Click here to see the original article.
Houston Texans cheerleaders reveal what it’s like to be calendar girls at launch party
Football season is pretty much upon us and that means lines of anxious fans everywhere. Rabid Houston Texans fans are waiting to get into the spirit of all things football — and that definitely includes the Houston Texans Cheerleaders 2015-16 swimsuit calendar reveal party.
Fans lined up outside the Go Texan Store at NRG Stadium in three-digit temperatures and humidity on Saturday waiting to purchase their $10 calendars for the bikini-clad Babes on Parade to autograph.
In her fourth year gracing the HTC Swimsuit calendar, Delaney, who poses for April, may be a veteran to the swimsuit shoot process, but says each one is a unique experience.
Delaney may look sweet and innocent (which she is!), but be warned her favorite thing about the month of April is April Fool’s Day.
A new addition to this year’s calendar is Callie who struts her stuff for August. Callie was overwhelmed and flattered by the process as she sat next to twins Randi and Jordan (also new to the calendar and the team) to start signing calendars.
“It’s crazy, but it’s flattering – it still seems unreal,” she said as fans began entering the room. As
Texans cheerleaders were photographed at El Conquistador Resort’s Palomino Island in Puerto Rico. Courtesy photo
for the finished product, the blonde beamed, “I love it!”
For Callie, there are a lot of things about the month of August she loves. “It’s my sister’s birthday, back-to-school month and of course the start of football,” she says.
Kicking off 2016 and representing the fresh start that is January is Lesha, who was also pulling double duty during her calendar signings by not only being featured in the first month of next year, but also one of the cover girls.
As for the cover, Lesha is particularly proud to be next to a few of her fellow cheerleaders, even if that means extra sharpie duty. “When I saw it, I was like oh my goodness, I can’t believe that’s me. It’s such an exciting experience and feeling that I’m so thankful and grateful for,” she says.
January also happens to be Lesha’s birthday month (January 18), so be sure to send her a note on Twitter when that day rolls around.
And speaking of Twitter, by our last count Lesha has more followers than any other NFL Cheerleader. Give her a follow at @HTC_Lesha.
Like last year, this year’s cover boasts six beautiful ladies (Antonieta, Delaney, Callie, Lesha, Kelly and Jessica) rather than highlighting just one. This simple photo speaks volumes for the way Texans cheerleaders coach Alto Gary runs her team. She likes to highlight as many of the girls as possible to show off their hard work, not to mention the teamwork and bond these ladies share.
Saturday’s event was open to fans who purchased a calendar who all had the chance to have the entire 2015 HTC squad sign their calendars, and check out a behind-the-scenes tour of their locker room. The afternoon also included mini makeovers at Salon HTC and a 10 percent discount at the Go Texan Store.
The ninth annual calendar was shot by photographer Trask Smith and is $10, with all proceeds benefiting the Houston Texans Foundation. Buy your calendar now.
This article originally ran on Culture Map. Click here to see the original article.
Co-Captains: Amira and Patrisha (photo via Warriors.com)
NBA Finals: Golden State Warriors Dance Team Edition
Everyone is all LeBron James this and Stephen Curry that…but what about Amira and Patrisha–fourth year co-captains for the Golden State Warriors Dance Team, working their butts off to keep the team and the fans energized during this tough series?
The epic NBA Finals battle heads back to Golden State on Sunday for game five (and again on Friday, June 16th if necessary), but the dancers are probably more excited than even the biggest bandwagon fan (like myself).
Check out our exclusive Q&A with Amira and Patrisha about their postseason experience thus far, their new uniforms, their love for their team and their fans and especially all the juiciness of the Finals action
Man Cave Daily: Describe the NBA Finals atmosphere?
Amira: The crowd at Oracle Arena has exceeded my expectations as being the loudest, most engaging fans in the NBA. The Warriors Dance Team feeds off the electrifying energy from the fans, and I’m sure the team does as well. Warriors fans are truly the best fans in the NBA.
Patrisha: The atmosphere is almost indescribable. Every fan puts on their gold Strength In Numbers t-shirt before every game to show a united front. You feel the energy in the arena explode as soon as we step on court. The Finals take this atmosphere to another level. The Golden State Warriors have been underdogs and written off for so long, our loyal fans are truly invested in us and want to see us succeed. Every seat is filled with an intense, loud and passionate fan all season long, but even more so in the Finals.
MCD: How does it feel to be able to dance and be right there in the action of such a huge sporting event?
A: The NBA Finals are the real deal. This platform elevates the Warriors team and organization to the next level. Millions of fans around the world are watching, which not only pushes us to perform our best, but to take in the energy and excitement of the situation.
P: It’s a blessing to perform on this stage for the NBA Finals. I feel honored to be a part of this dance team and organization. I’ve been a Warriors fan my entire life, and I am thankful every time I step out on the court. To perform at the NBA’s signature event is just a dream come true.
MCD: How have you been prepping?
A: Every season before the team reaches the NBA Playoffs, the Warriors Dance Team brings in our top choreographers to learn new and fun routines. We think that these high-energy routines add to the energy and excitement of the Playoffs. The Warriors Dance Team also unveils new uniforms during the playoff run to give our fans a new element to the on-court action.
P: We have learned new routines to make sure our performances are dynamic and flawless, so when we hit the court on game day we are ready to entertain and energize our fan base. Our rehearsals have been a lot longer (typically four hours per practice) to prepare for a playoff game. Every member of our team is working hard to give our best for each game.
MCD: How proud are you of your team?
A: Warriors fans have been faithful through thick and the thin. It’s an amazing time to be a Warriors fan. I am so proud of our team and what they have accomplished this year and how far they have come. It’s a rare achievement to reach the NBA Finals and perform at this level, and I am so happy to be a part of this experience.
P: I am extremely proud of our team and our organization. I joined the Warriors Dance Team in 2011, and to see our players grow into a great basketball team has been amazing. Our fans have been there to support the team during difficult seasons, so to now have a franchise record 67-win season and to now be in the NBA Finals with a chance to win it all is amazing, and hopefully we are making new Warriors fans along the way.
MCD: You’ve obviously been watching your team all season–you knew they had it in them–how does it feel for the rest of the NBA world to really be paying attention?
A: It feels like a dream. It is so exciting to be able to embrace the success our team is experiencing on the court. They are a strong team and deserve this. It’s just an amazing experience and it is exciting that the whole world gets to experience this with us as well!
P: I think the recognition and attention the team has received is well deserved. I knew in my heart we would make it all the way.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/warriors-amira-patrisha.jpg349620Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2015-06-12 12:35:142015-06-27 12:39:05NBA Finals: Golden State Warriors Dance Team Edition
Pelicans Dancer Tramera (photo courtesy of Pelicans)
Pelicans Dancer Tramera will draw you in.
To be an NBA dancer of course means a great smile and insanely good dance moves. But it takes a lot more to snag one of these coveted spots, especially to be a member of the Pelicans Dance Team.
To prove just how versatile (and amazing) these women are, we profiled Tramera – a fourth-year co-captain for the Pelicans Dance Team, and found out some pretty cool things about her and her team. For example? Tramera admits that the locker room is a dance party before every home game (for the dancers–we’re not certain what it looks like for the players–but you never know).
Check out our exclusive Q&A with Tramera, a series on The Blonde Side brought to you by Ideal Protein Houston.
Man Cave Daily: Where are you from?
Tramera: Boutte, LA.
MCD: Years on team?
T: This is my fourth year on the Pelicans Dance Team. I actually made the team the first time I auditioned. It shocked me because I wasn’t expecting to make the team, but I was the final dancer chosen. It has been the best opportunity! I’ve had the chance to be a part of a really great organization.
MCD: Tell me about your dance background?
T: I started dancing when I was two years old. As soon as I was able to walk, I started taking dance classes. It wasn’t so glamorous at that time and I cried my eyes out every single practice and refused to dance. My dance teacher was worried that I wouldn’t know the routine by the time the recital came around, but I knew the dance perfectly, as if I was practicing every time we were in the studio. As the years have passed, I’ve taken classes from top-name choreographers such as Tyce Diorio, Wade Robson, Tabitha and Napoleon and Frank Hatchett. I owe a lot of the dancer I am today to those instructors and wouldn’t change a thing.
MCD: Hardest part about being an NBA dancer?
T: The numerous routines we have to remember. We learn a significant amount before the season starts, but it could be a couple of weeks before we perform that routine. We have to make sure we keep every dance fresh in our head to make sure we know them when that time comes.
MCD: Have you ever gone onto the court and forgotten your routine?
T: This is funny because I actually have forgotten a part of a routine, but not the entire thing. The only thing I could do was just jump in place until I caught back on track and hoped no one noticed. I definitely laughed at myself afterwards.
MCD: Favorite NBA player?
T: My favorite player would have to be our very own Anthony Davis. I’ve seen his transformation from being the number one draft pick a few years ago to dominating the game every time he plays, so it’s hard not to chose him. He’s still young, and I can’t wait to see what he can achieve and accomplish in years to come.
MCD: What’s the best part about basketball?
T: The energy our fans bring to every game. Their enthusiasm is contagious and inspires us to be energetic every single game. So, thank you, Pelicans fans!
MCD: What’s the coolest part of Smoothie King Center?
T: I think coolest part would have to be our locker room. Every game is like a dance party before we take the court. We have our music playing loudly and we get to enjoy “girl time” before we entertain thousands of fans every game.
MCD: If you had a Real Housewives intro, what would yours be?
Tramera celebrates Mardi Gras on court for the Pelicans (photo via Pelicans)
T: It would have to be “Don’t let this cute face fool you, I’m like a hot tamale!” I am sweet, but I can be feisty!
MCD: Favorite music to dance to?
T: Anything upbeat. If it’s a song by Nicki Minaj or Beyonce, you will definitely catch me dancing like no one’s watching. Two songs that they collaborated on –”Flawless” and “Feelin’ Myself”–are two of my favorite songs of all time.
MCD: What song instantly puts you in a good mood?
T: “Bend Ova” by Lil Jon and Tyga. The intensity of the song and beats just get me going. I could be having the worst day and this song can come on and I’m instantly in a better mood. You can’t help but dance and groove to it.
MCD: Dream vacation?
T: Spending a week in Greece with Khloe Kardashian. You might ask why I would chose her to go on a vacation with her of all people, but I know I would not have a dull moment with her. She’s a no-nonsense type of person but still has a goofy personality.
MCD: Fan of selfies?
T: I am a HUGE fan of selfies. The keys are lighting and positioning. Your body has to be at the right angle to where you partially see the outfit without showing too much because then it’ll take the attention away from your face (which you don’t want). The perfect lighting will make your skin glow and look flawless.
MCD: Favorite thing about New Orleans?
T: Our extensive list of festivals. We have festivals for just about anything, such as Crawfish Festival, Jazz and Heritage Festival, Oyster Festival, French Quarter Festival, just to name a few. At each festival, some of the best restaurants come out and serve mouth-watering dishes that will have you taking a trip to the restaurant to see what other delicious meals they have to offer. If you haven’t experienced a festival in New Orleans, you should come and see the great food and music New Orleans has to offer.
MCD: App you use the most?
T: The app that I use the most is of course, Instagram. I just like scrolling down my timeline and seeing what my friends post. Sometimes they post beautiful pictures of scenery or cute selfies.
MCD: If you could go to dinner with any celebrity/athlete in the world, who would it be and why?
T: It would have to be Sandra Bullock. She was in a New Orleans Mardi Gras parade when I was a young girl and threw me a stuffed alligator (which I still have to this day). She is one of my favorite actresses and seems like a down-to-earth person.
MCD: Tell me something people would find completely out of character?
T: Something people might not know is that I love to draw. I can sit for hours and just freehand so many different pictures that might pop-up in my head. When I’m not dancing, you can find me drawing.
A huge thanks to Tramera for giving us an exclusive interview and a big thanks to Ideal Protein Houston for sponsoring this NBA Dance series to learn more about the hard-work these ladies put into their love for dancing.
Ideal Protein is a medically developed protocol only available from qualified professionals. Ideal Protein provides one-on-one weight loss coaching including educational support and weekly weight and body measurements analysis. Check out Ideal Protein’s website (link above) to learn more about their health and management offerings for weight loss.
Click here to see the original article of Tramera from the Pelicans on CBS Man Cave Daily.
Amira is why we all wish we were California girls (photo via: Warriors)
“I Wish They All Could Be California Girls.” You heard it first from Brian, Davis, Mike, Bruce and Al who sang that same phrase over radio waves for decades. The Beach Boys sang it back in the ’60s (long before Amira was born), but one can’t help wonder if a beautiful brunette just like her was inspiration for such a catchy and flattering song. Because once you meet Amira and get a feel for her positive attitude and good vibes, we’re all going to wish we were California girls!
She’s beautiful, she’s grounded, she’s enthusiastic and she likes to pretend she’s a drummer while stuck in traffic in her beautiful city.
Amira has been a member of the Warriors Dance Team for four seasons and the 2014-2015 season marked her first as the captain. Those are big dancing shoes to fill, but she does it perfectly. Just ask any Golden State fan or her teammates.
Man Cave Daily: Where are you from?
Amira Danville, California
MCD: Occupation or School? Give me details about your day-to-day life:
A: Being a marketing professional, Warriors Dance Team member and outdoor lover means my day-to-day life varies constantly!
I am the Northern California Field Marketing Manager for ZICO Coconut Water. My average day consists of conference calls, meetings (which is usually working out with our gym partners/studios) and managing a team of eight part-time ZICO staff. We support various events throughout the Bay Area so I spend a large amount of time in the car traveling around the Bay in my ZICO truck!
I studied Nutrition and Healthy Living in school so making sure I eat well and exercise during the day is an essential part of my daily routine. I love to walk or hike with my dog Shya and explore new places.
MCD: Years on team?
A: This is my fourth season with the Warriors Dance Team, my first as team captain. Previously, I danced for the Phoenix Suns for one year during the 2010-11 season.
MCD: Tell me about your dance background?
A: I have been dancing since I was three years old. I started out as a studio dancer, taking multiple dance classes during the week and also competing. I was also part of my high school dance program and Pom Squad. Afterwards, I attended Arizona State and danced on their Spirit Squad.
MCD: Hardest part about being an NBA Dancer?
A: Time management is critical to be a successful NBA dancer. There is a lot more work that goes into being an NBA dancer than just showing up and dancing. We practice three times a week, have multiple games depending on the week, and also participate in community events and promotional appearances throughout the month that keep us busy. On top of that, many of us either work or go to school full time. Then to have a social life or spend time with loved ones, your days run away from you very quickly if you don’t stay on top of your schedule.
MCD: Have you ever gone onto the court and forgotten your routine?
A: No! Thank goodness. There are definitely times when you run out and you have a constant conversation in your head about what’s going on, and sometimes it’s not perfect but your body knows what it is doing and you just have to trust that all your hard work and practice has paid off.
MCD: Favorite NBA player?
A: We have such an amazing roster this season that it’s hard to pick one Warriors player. Our team plays as a unit and it shows on the court so I would have to say the entire Warriors basketball team.
MCD: Best part about basketball?
A: Our game is played at a fast pace — I tend to move quickly and get distracted/bored easily, but NBA basketball moves so quickly, you are constantly engaged in the game. Especially watching this Warriors, if you look away for a second you’re going to miss an amazing three-point shot!
MCD: What’s the coolest part of Oracle Arena?
A: Also known as Roaracle–can get pretty crazy, and that’s during the regular season. Playoff games at our arena take the atmosphere and intensity to a whole other level. What I love about Warriors fans is that they are loyal and have supported our team through the tough times and now the really amazing times. I think we have the best fans in the NBA because no other arena has as much energy every night as ours.
MCD: If you had a Real Housewives intro, what would yours be?
All smiles for Amira (Photo via Warriors)
A: I’m not really the Housewife type.
MCD: I think every man everywhere just fell a little more in love with you for that answer. Ok, next question — Miley or Taylor?
A: Taylor Swift all the way. I love country music!
MCD: Biggest misconception about NBA dancers?
A: That we don’t do anything but dance. It is very much our love and passion to dance, but all of us keep ourselves busy with work or school, and are very involved with team activities off the court.
MCD: Favorite music to dance to?
A: I can dance to just about anything with a good beat!
MCD: What song instantly puts you in a good mood?
A: “Ants Marching” by Dave Matthews Band — I like to pretend I am an amazing drummer in the car!
MCD: Dream vacation?
A: Any beach I’ve never been to before, I love traveling and seeing new places and exploring. I don’t get to travel often, but when I do I love it!
MCD: Most embarrassing thing we’d find in your Google history?
A: My computer actually just broke so I am using only my work computer, so you’ll only find links to ZICO Coconut Water and all the fun events in the Bay Area!
MCD: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?
A: There is A LOT in there! I would say my emergency kit — it has everything you could ever need in one safe place (lip gloss, makeup wipes, protein powder and finger nail clippers).
MCD: Fan of selfies?
A: I am not a fan of selfies at all. It’s actually funny when I try to take group selfies with my teammates, even though I’m tall (5’8) and have long arms, no one wants me taking the selfie — we all get cut off!
MCD: Favorite thing about your city?
A: San Francisco is just beautiful; you get to enjoy the beach as well as the unique streets of the city. Doesn’t get much better than that! Then you can drive 45 minutes to an hour and you’re in the suburbs or at a hiking trail or in the beautiful Napa Valley.
MCD: When I say the letter “W” what’s the first word that comes to mind?
A: WARRIORS.
MCD: What app do you use most often on your phone?
MCD: If you could go to dinner with any celebrity/athlete in the world, who would it be?
A:The Tone it Up Girls — I love everything they do and how inspirational they are to live a healthy lifestyle.
MCD: Homebody or an adventurer?
A: Homebody — after running around all day, every day, I love coming home to relax, read blogs and hang out with my dog Shya.
MCD: Tell me something about you people would find completely out of character?
A: I cook 90% of my meals every week. Knowing what goes into my food is so important to me, so I’d rather take the time to cook everything rather than eating at a restaurant.
To see the original article plus a few extra smashing photos of Amira, click here to see it on CBS Man Cave Daily. Thanks to Ideal Protein Houston for sponsoring this fun NBA Dance Series. Ideal Protein can help you with many aspects of weight loss and management, but my favorite is their weekly weight and body measurements analysis that they offer clients.
Bucks Dancer Lauren (photo via John Grant Photography)
Bucks Dancer Lauren is the girl next door – especially if your door is in Milwaukee.
I actually tried to find one flaw in sweet Lauren of the Milwaukee Bucks Dancers and it’s just not possible. It’s not that I didn’t want to like her, she just seemed too good to be true. She’s humble. She’s a better dancer than 99% of the people you’ve ever met in real life. She’s pretty funny. She loves basketball, but almost as important, she loves the fans and the city that supports the basketball that she loves. She’s a self-proclaimed “scaredy-cat” and as much as she loves a tropical beach vacation (especially in the heart of the brutal Wisconsin cold winters), she’s content being at home with nothing more than laugher and her friends and family.
We had the pleasure of getting to learn a little more about Lauren during our exclusive Q&A, so check out some of her answers. We’re pretty sure no matter which NBA team you root for, you’ll quickly become a fan of hers…
Jayme Lamm: Where are you from?
Lauren: I was born in Lansing, MI and moved around a couple times as a kid, but I’ve considered Milwaukee, Wisconsin home for the past 18 years!
JL: Occupation or School?
L: I am an administrative assistant for a company called Rexnord, which is manufacturing company based out of Milwaukee, WI. I am also the administrator of the Rexnord Foundation, so I have the wonderful privilege of being very involved in working with several non-profit organizations in the Milwaukee community.
JL: Years on team (did you try out multiple times before making it)?
L: I, fortunately, made the team the first time that I tried out, and this is my second season as a Milwaukee Bucks Dancer.
JL: Tell me about your dance background? You ladies have moves I wish I had; I know you didn’t just learn them…
L: Well, I have been dancing since I was four years old. My mom always tells me she knew I’d have a career in dance because of how comfortable I was on stage. I was such a shy, quiet little girl, but when I was on stage, I was a completely different person! So I danced my whole life, in all different genres, and I competed nationally with my studio in middle and high school. I was also on my high school poms team, and danced for my university in college.
JL: Hardest part about being an NBA dancer?
L: The hardest part about being an NBA dancer is probably the time commitment. It is one of the longest sport seasons and 41 home games that we have to be at. Don’t get me wrong- I love dancing in the NBA and having all those extra opportunities to dance because of the longer season – but you definitely have to have your mind set before the season starts that you are going to be dedicated and busy for the next few months.
JL: Have you ever gone onto the court and forgotten your routine?
L: I have never gone on court and forgotten a routine, but during my very first ever preseason game, I started facing the wrong way for our routine. I realized it within the first eight-count and quickly turned myself around and covered it up. But, I was mortified! It took me a few days to laugh that one off.
JL: Favorite NBA player and why?
L: This may be cliché, but I think my favorite player would have to be Michael Jordan. I grew up with two brothers who were his biggest fans, so I of course joined the bandwagon and rooted for him as well. It was a way to connect with my sporty brothers, so they wouldn’t just look at me as the “dancing queen.”
JL: What’s the best part about basketball?
L: I think the best part about basketball is the pace. It is one of the quickest-moving sports, and the
Bucks Dancer Lauren (photo via John Grant Photography)
game can change in a matter of seconds! It keeps everyone on their toes, and keeps the fans engaged throughout the whole four quarters. In my opinion, there is never a dull moment!
JL: What’s the coolest part of your arena?
L: Our arena is called the BMO Harris Bradley Center. I think the coolest part of the arena is our fans! Milwaukee has some of the greatest fans in the NBA because they are fans through thick and thin. They are always supportive and friendly, and they make our job as dancers more fun because they engage with us and have a good time.
JL: If you had a Real Housewives intro, what would yours be?
L: I love The Real Housewives — it’s my guilty pleasure. My friends and I often joke with each other about what our tag lines would be if we were Real Housewives. I think mine would be something like “Happy girls are the prettiest.”
JL: Miley or Taylor?
L: T-Swift all the way! My new favorite of hers is “Shake It Off.” I mean that is just such a good mindset to live with in general!
JL: Biggest misconception about NBA dancers?
L: I think one of the biggest misconceptions about being an NBA dancer is that we don’t do anything else. In reality, every single one of us on the team either has a full-time job or is a full-time student. We all have busy schedules, but we fit in the second job as an NBA dancer because dancing is our passion and what makes us truly happy!
JL: Favorite music to dance to?
L: I honestly don’t have a favorite type to dance to. I like to mix it up a lot. That’s one thing I love so much about dancing; you can do it to all different types of music!
JL: What song instantly puts you in a good mood?
L: These days, I am immediately in a better mood when the song “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran comes on the radio. I turn up the volume and sign as loud as I can. Funny thing – the louder you turn up the volume, the better your own voice sounds.
JL: Dream vacation?
L: As the long Wisconsin winter finally comes to an end, my dream vacation would be a week in the Bahamas or Jamaica. Nothing sounds better than the hot sun and a cool ocean right now! I think either spot would be perfect to travel with a big group of friends and stay at an all-inclusive resort.
JL: Most embarrassing thing we’d find in your recent Google history?
L: It was recently pointed out to me by a teammate that I play with my hair a lot, which is an embarrassment in itself. It’s a bad habit that I’ve developed. So, I have embarrassingly searched, “Why do people play with their hair?” I found several theories, but the one that I am going to stick with is that it is because I’m a perfectionist; whether or not that’s the case – I’m not sure. But it sounds like the best (least crazy) explanation, so I’m sticking with it.
JL: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?
L: I guess the most random item in my purse right now is my unopened eyeliner pencil. I actually ran out of eyeliner during last night’s Bucks game, so I picked some up on my way into work this morning (as I knew it was the only time I’d have to stop and pick some up before the next game, where I would need it again).
JL: Fan of selfies? Do you have any secrets to the perfect selfie?
L: I’m not a huge fan of selfies, unless I’m taking them with other people. It makes me feel a little less silly, I guess, if there are other people joining me in the selfie craze!
JL: Favorite thing about your city?
L: My favorite part of Milwaukee is the lakefront. It is so beautiful, especially in the spring and summer. I love sitting out on the beach when the weather is nice, or going for runs along the shoreline.
JL: When I say the letter “W” what’s the first word that comes to mind?
L: Two words come to my mind — am I allowed to have two first words? The words “win” and “Wisconsin” come to mind. My teammates and I like to throw up the “W” for pictures whenever The Bucks win! And, being from Wisconsin, it is very common to make a “W” with your fingers to represent Wisconsin or the University of Wisconsin. We like to rep our state!
L: I think I use Instagram the most. I am a shameless poster of pictures with friends, family, the boyfriend, and of course, my lovely teammates! I also have the role of being the social media lead on my team, so I post pictures on the Milwaukee Bucks Dancers Instagram to keep our fans updated on what we are up to during games and in the community.
JL: If you could go to dinner with any celebrity/athlete in the world, who would it be?
L: I think it would be Jennifer Aniston. She has always been one of my favorite actresses, and she seems like such a sweet, kind person. I would love to sit down and get to know her as Jennifer Aniston, and not one of her several characters that I have grown to love. I imagine that we’d be really good friends if we ever met. Or maybe I just like to fantasize that we would be BFF’s…
JL: Homebody or an adventurer?
L: As much as I’d like to say I’m an adventurer, I’m probably more realistically, a homebody. I am content in Milwaukee, surrounded by my family and friends. I like to travel and go on vacations, but I am always happy to come home after a week or two.
JL: So what’s most adventurous thing you’ve done?
L: It probably won’t come as a shock due to my previous answer, that I haven’t done anything too overly adventurous. I’m kind of a “scaredy-cat.” Off the top of my head, the most adventurous thing I can think of is hang gliding. I actually went with the rest of the Milwaukee Bucks Dancers. We did it as a team-building activity over the summer. I was a little nervous to jump off the ledge at first, but it was really fun once I did it!
JL: Tell me something about you people would find completely out of character?
L: A lot of people who didn’t know me before I became a Milwaukee Bucks Dancer find it interesting to know that I have my teaching license. I actually got my degree in English Education, but wanted to pursue my dance career after college, so I put my teaching career on hold for the time being. However, I do have dreams to pursue my passion for teaching once my passion for dance is finally fulfilled (but who knows when that will be because I’ve already been dancing for 20 years of my life and still can’t seem to get enough!)
To see the original interview along with more smashing photos of Lauren, click here to see it on CBS Man Cave Daily. Thanks to the Milwaukee Bucks for partaking in this awesome series showcasing some of the best NBA dancers and thanks to Ideal Protein Houston for sponsoring it. Ideal Protein help with many aspects of weight loss and management, and offers something unique for each client.
The NBA Dance series of interviews continue and this time we took our talents to Toronto to chat with göt2b Raptors Dance Pak Captain, Nina.
You’d be hard-pressed to find another human that loves the Raptors more than Nina, but even beyond the team, she is head over heels in love with everythingthat is Toronto. If the Toronto Visitors Bureau is reading this, consider this our formal nomination for Nina to be your next billboard. In case we failed to mention it, she’s absolutely beautiful, a ball of joy to chat with plus a lover of cars.
Actually, Nina’s so cool maybe she should even be the Mayor? Ok, that’s probably taking it too far, but she’s an all-around cool chick that we’re happy to showcase in our exclusive interview so you can see for yourself…
Jayme Lamm: Where are you from?
Nina: I grew up on the beach in Sarnia, Ontario, small town!
JL: Occupation and/or school?
N: Right now I am finishing my Bachelor of Arts Degree majoring in Dance from York University. It has taken me five years to complete so I am beyond happy to finally be finishing school! I am also part other dance companies in Toronto. My life basically consists of Raptors, dance, school, and more dance. Couldn’t ask for anything better.
JL: Years on team?
N: This is my fourth season with the team and second year being Captain. I was lucky enough to make the team the first year I auditioned; it’s been a wild ride so far.
JL: Tell me about your dance background?
N: Dance has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I started when I was four years old and have been addicted ever since! I have had awesome opportunities this far in my dance career and I’m so happy I can say I continued on with dance this far in my life.
JL: Hardest part about being an NBA Dancer?
N: I would have to say the most challenging part about being an NBA Dancer is the time commitment. Besides the intense game schedule, we are always in rehearsal and participating in other göt2b Raptors Dance Pak-related appearances. There is much more to being an NBA Dancer than just dance! It definitely is a challenge but a challenge I love.
JL: Have you ever forgotten your routine?
N: Never! I always make sure I am focused and prepared before I step out on to the court. But the nerves never go away; every game feels like my first game!
JL: Favorite NBA player?
N: I’m going to stick within the Raptors family and say Amir Johnson. He has always been a great representation of the Raptors team and the city of Toronto. #WeTheNorth
JL: What’s the best part about basketball?
N: I love the constant entertainment basketball has to offer. There is always so much happening at a Raptors game that it keeps you on the edge of your seat. The Raptors fan base gets bigger and better every season. Feeling the energy from the fans makes my job that much more rewarding. We recently performed a Britney Spears tribute routine and I got to be Britney! Fun routines like that are really enjoyed by all the fans. Every game day is surreal!
JL: What’s the coolest part of your arena?
N: I call Air Canada Centre my second home! I have been going there almost every other day for four years now and it is such a comfortable environment. The fans fill the seats with excitement and support for the team. And obviously we have the most amazing mascot in the NBA, that Raptor means so much to me…and to the fans!
JL: Biggest misconception about NBA dancers?
N: Being on the göt2b Raptors Dance Pak for four seasons now, I have had the opportunity to meet and work with the most amazing dancers. We all have such unique personalities and come from all different dance backgrounds. The göt2b Raptors Dance Pak is an amazing representation of Toronto because we all have our own diverse stories just like the community that makes up this amazing city. We are all normal people who get to live out the dream of dancing for an NBA basketball team! Being with each other every other day or even sometimes every day, we get to learn and grow with each other in life. There is more to just dance than being part of the göt2b Raptors Dance Pak and we all have our own spot on the team for a reason. As a team we represent the Raptors organization and share that love for the team in our own individual ways.
JL: Favorite music to dance to?
N: I think because I am a dancer I can dance to any type of music. When I hear a beat I just naturally start moving. It is in my blood!
JL: What song instantly puts you in a good mood?
N: Anything by Alanis Morissette. Too many childhood memories of singing along to her music with my sister and aunt.
JL: Dream vacation?
N: Going anywhere with my family or friends. I love to travel but never get that many opportunities to travel with the people closest to me! I know I am going to have fun wherever I go if it involves my family and friends, but it is an added bonus if the destination is an amazing location.
JL: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?
N: The most random thing? I would have to say a comb. But being part of the got2b Raptors Dance Pak we do so many famous RDP “hair whips” my hair can get a little extra tangled.
JL: Fan of selfies? Do you have any secrets to the perfect selfie?
N: I’m not going to lie and say I have never taken a selfie. I do take selfies and I think my biggest secret about them is they are never planned or staged. I love candid selfies especially with my friends. The simpler the better, people!
JL: Favorite thing about your city?
N: I absolutely love the city of Toronto. Every day I walk out my door there is always something different to experience. Nothing beats the fast-paced energy of Toronto that you feel when you are walking down the streets. It is full of culture! I have grown up and learned so much from living in this city that I am proud to call it home.
JL: When I say the letter “W” what’s the first word that comes to mind?
N: Win! It is what we look forward to the most during every game. Raptors for the “W”!
JL: What app do you use most?
N: My weather app! The weather in Toronto is always changing and right now I have my eye on anything that is above zero degrees. I am sick of the cold!
JL: If you could go to dinner with any celebrity/athlete in the world, who would it be?
N: I would have to say my lifetime crush…Johnny Depp. He will always be my number one and it will never change. 21 Jump Street to Pirates of the Caribbean — I have been a fan of him my entire life!
JL: Homebody or adventurer?
N: I am definitely an adventurer. Life is so short you have to make the best of it! I think I have a “fear of missing out” about things so I always make sure I am taking on an adventure. Why not right?
JL: Tell me something people would find completely out of character?
N: There are a couple of things that people would find interesting about me. I have always had a passion for drawing and painting. My sister was a huge fan of art so growing up I definitely gained my artistic style from her. And I am also a huge fan of cars. I have my mother to thank for that…old cars or new cars I love them all.
A huge thanks to Nina for giving us an exclusive interview and a big thanks to Ideal Protein Houston for sponsoring this series. Ideal Protein is a medically developed protocol, which is only available from qualified professionals. Ideal Protein provides one-on-one weight loss coaching for educational support along with motivation and weekly weight and body measurements analysis. Go visit Ideal Protein’s website to learn more about their health and management offerings for weight loss.
Click here to see the original article of Nina on CBS Man Cave Daily.
Houston Texans Cheerleaders – a few blondies (photo via Houston Texans)
Houston Texans cheerleaders battle to make the team: A behind the scenes look at the beautiful drama
Massive sighs of relief could be heard from 35 of the hardest working, hair-flipping and hip thrusting gals in Houston when the new Texans cheerleaders were revealed inside the Methodist Training Center practice bubble this week. For the first time in Texans cheerleader history, all the returning vets made the 50-women finals, which included a week of practices, swimsuit rounds, interviews by the coach and other Texans staff and online daily voting by crazed fans.
Everything fell into place Tuesday night when Texans cheerleader coach Alto Gary announced the 35 girls who will beautifully make up the new team, which include 12 rookies anxious to rock those coveted red boots.
“You worked so hard and I’m so thankful for your hard work. I wish I had 50 spots, but I don’t have the budget for it. If your name isn’t called, we can be friends and I hope to see you next year,” the coach started before calling the first name. As each name was called, the women walked the red carpet to hug Gary, letting out a huge sigh of relief.
“We have a lot of Sarah’s . . . Sarah M” coach called out saying “she’s come a long, long way and I’m so proud of her.” Gary noted that Sarah M. was part of the training group last season and expressed her sincere appreciation for all her hard work over the course of the year.
(Note, the team also has Sarah C. and Sarah F. The Texans do not release cheerleaders’ last names.)
One of the most excited red carpet walks has to go to returning vet Allison who literally sprinted to hug her coach, which was impressive in those knee-high red boots with a heel.
My personal highlight of the night was when Gary called for Jessica. Not a soul moved. Everyone looked at the beautiful blonde who was standing towards the left of the semicircle, but she had no idea it was her. “Yes, YOU,” Gary said before Jessica finally made her way onto the carpet. (Thank goodness we avoided that awkward Bachelor moment when the wrong girl steps up for the rose.)
Krystal literally jumped all the way down the red carpet after hearing her name.
After all 35 names were called, Gary thanked everyone yet again for their dedication and hard work. “You never know what can happen. Ladies, I will see you next year, stay in shape, and keep dancing!” the coach said. “Seriously, you never know what could happen — you could get a call in December. Thank you and I’ll see you next year.”
It’s no secret the 50 finalists put in a lot of hard work, but Gary and her staff definitely logged some
HTC Madison and Lesha are back for another season (Photo via Houston Texans)
long nights too.
Cheerleader Heartbreak
Sadly a few Texans cheerleader vets did not make the team this year and the heartache was clear on everyone’s faces, including Gary’s.
Cheerleader vet Rachel said that on a scale of 1 to 10 in nervousness she was an 11.5 heading into the evening.
Cheerleader vet Rachel said that on a scale of 1 to 10 in nervousness she was an 11.5.
“I just really want my spot back. Last season I came in here and just had a blast because I had nothing to lose because I wasn’t on the team and coming in here this year I had everything to lose. This is everything to me,” she said.
As for the rookie she’s most excited about, Rachel said that goes to Kelly. “She was an Ice Angel — that’s what I was before this and that’s how I met her, so when she came down she asked if she could live with me, so we live together — I’m so excited she made it!”
There’s a new set of twins on the sidelines — Jordan and Randi who are identical twins from Crockett with the thickest and sweetest southern accents you’ll ever hear. This was the duo’s first time trying out.
“We were overwhelmed — can’t believe it,” the twins said in unison. As for what they’re most looking forward to, Jordan summed it up quite nicely.
“The experience and making friendships and dancing on the field in front of thousands of people,” she said.
Although the sisters have never done anything quite like this, they’ve danced for 13 years and even taught dance for five years. The pair plans to commute in for every game and practice in their shared Jeep Patriot — all the way from Huntsville.
That’s cheerleader dedication.
Click here to see the original article that ran on Houston’s Culture Map.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Houston-Texans-cheerleaders-April-2015_142310.jpg532800Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2015-04-09 12:03:552015-04-23 12:08:522015 HTC Battle To Make the Team
Wizard Girl Kelly (photo courtesy of the Washington Wizards)
Washington D.C. has long been packed with some big names and some powerful influences. Politics aside, the Wizard Girls are at the top of that list (at least my list) and so is my new blonde pal Kelly who is in her rookie year with the east coast dance team.
She’s energetic, has the kind of hair Pantene commercials are made of, and of course…she’s got the dance moves we all wish we had. But hair and slick moves aside, Kelly is the total package with the desire to always give back to her community, loves the intensity of the sport she dances for and isn’t afraid to photo bomb anyone and everyone possible. And she’s humble…unless you talk about her college dance team of course…
I also feel like I should warn New Yorkers, because Kelly says D.C. trumps New York. Fighting words?
Man Cave Daily: Where are you from?
Kelly: Warrenton, VA–a small town most people just call Northern Virginia.
MCD: Occupation or School?
K: I graduated from Hofstra University, in Long Island, NY. I majored in journalism and was on the dance team. We just so happen to be back-to-back Division One Hip-hop National Champions, but I don’t like to brag.
MCD: Years on team, did you make it your first try?
K: I am a rookie! I was lucky enough to make it on my first try.
MCD: Tell me about your dance background? You have moves I wish I had; I know you didn’t just learn them…
K: I have been a dancer for a long time; I actually grew up studying ballet, but I got pretty serious about it in college while on the dance team. Not only did we dance at sporting events, we competed in Collegiate Nationals. I love a team environment; I was never the one who hated group projects in school. So after graduating I needed a new team.
I made the New York Jets Flight Crew, and I had a great season cheering for the NFL. I moved back to the D.C. area this summer and was lucky enough to become a Wizard Girl!
MCD: Hardest part about being an NBA Dancer?
K: Well there is a lot of hard work that goes into being a NBA dancer, but the payoff is so fun that the work is worth it! We are constantly learning new material, and getting ready for upcoming games. With 40-plus games and multiple performances in a game, we have a lot of choreography to get to Wizard Girl standards!
MCD: Have you ever gone onto the court and forgotten your routine?
K: Thank goodness I have never forgotten a routine on the court! I don’t think my coach would be too happy about that. Derric, our coach works extremely hard to give us new, entertaining, and innovative routines. And we work hard to get them right for game day. But my teammates would tell you I may have a moment or two right before we perform that I think I have forgotten everything. But I have learned that I don’t, and they have learned to ignore me.
MCD: Favorite NBA player?
K: What I think makes the Wizards so fun to watch is how they work together. It’s hard to pick a favorite!
MCD: Best part about basketball?
K: How everything is close-up and more intimate than other sports. It just adds to the excitement and intensity. I love being able to see the faces of the team I am cheering on, as well as those cheering with us in the stands. It may sound weird, but I love the personality that basketball has. Seeing a player give everything they have on the court in those final seconds, pull off some creative and athletic moves to win the game, and then see the fans right there with them.
MCD: Coolest thing about your arena?
K: The Verizon Center is electric; D.C. packs the place out to see the Wizards continue in their great season. I love that from the highest rows to courtside, fans are cheering the entire game.
MCD: If you had a Real Housewives intro…
K: Ughhh, I am feeling a lot of pressure on this one! My teammates and I joke about if we had a
Wizard Girl Kelly has all the right moves and words to live by (photo courtesy Washington Wizards)
Wizard Girl TV show; I’m telling you these girls are hilarious. So I don’t want to disappoint.
MCD: Miley or Taylor?
K: Both! Is that cheating?
MCD: Biggest misconception about NBA dancers?
K: Well I can think of a handful off the top of my head; most involving a lack of brains, or humility. But we don’t dance for other people’s opinion; that is the biggest misconception. Any girl dancing for a professional team has worked extremely hard for that position, and knows how much goes into it. You will be hard-pressed to find a place with more driven, kind, hilarious, and intelligent women than the sidelines of an NBA court, and they happen to be pretty great dancers too.
MCD: Dream vacation?
K: I am constantly talking about traveling, to my family and my friends. We have so many dream trips planned in our heads it’s hard to pick just one. I would really love to go to Greece, but I would honestly go most anywhere in the world right now! I mean, if I didn’t have practice…
MCD: Most embarrassing thing in your recent Google history?
K: It’s funny you should ask that. Last night in the locker room we were doing a pretty serious Google investigation into Sally Hansen, to see what she looked like. It turns out, she’s not even real! If you have no idea what I’m talking about it is completely understandable.
MCD: Most random thing in your purse?
K: I was really hoping for something interesting–I have nail polish… not cool at all.
MCD: Fan of selfies?
K: I don’t take a lot of selfies. I never get the angle right or something. Buuut I do photobomb a lot of selfies, and well, any other picture. It is definitely something the Wizard Girls have rubbed off on me. We all do it; no one and no picture is safe.
MCD: Favorite thing about DC?
K: Coming from New York I wasn’t sure how D.C. was going to stack up. And I hate to break it to all my New Yorkers but it’s better–a lot better. I love that although it is a huge city it can still feel small. I love how beautiful it is; my drive to the Verizon Center is marked with the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, White House–I could go on and on.
MCD: When I say the letter “W” what’s the first word that comes to mind?
K: Well I instantly think of WIN! It may be because I am still thinking about the Wizards’ win last night.
MCD: App you use most?
K: Probably the map–directions are not my strength.
MCD: Homebody or adventurer?
K: Definitely an adventurer. I am up for anything, and love being spontaneous! My teammate and I made a 2015 bucket list; they aren’t huge trips or anything. Just small ideas that keep us trying new things! I’m really looking forward to trying to trapeze, and a color run.
MCD: Most adventurous thing you’ve done?
K: Moving back to D.C. this summer was such an adventure! I never thought I would be here and dancing for the Wizards. And now that I am, I don’t know how I lived without it. This city and my teammates bring an adventure everyday!
MCD: Tell me something people would find completely out of character?
K: I used to be a competitive figure skater and I am obsessed with board games! I also have recently started volunteering with the Alzheimer’s Association. It is a cause very close to my heart, and the Association does such great work to help those with the disease and their families, and help fund research to find a cure!
To end on a somewhat motivational note because I know Kelly will approve, I will leave you with one of Kelly’s favorite quotes, which is also now one of my favorites: “All you touch and all you see, is all your life will ever be.”
To see the original interview along with more smashing photos of Kelly, click here to see it on CBS Man Cave Daily. Thanks to the Wizard Girls for partaking in this series and thanks to Ideal Protein Houston for sponsoring the series. Ideal Protein can help you with many aspects of weight loss and management, but my favorite is their weekly weight and body measurements analysis that they offer clients.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/washington-wizard-girl-kelly1.jpg921642Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2015-04-02 10:27:432015-04-05 10:32:45Wizard Girl Kelly
One of the reasons I love the NBA is how fast-paced games are. There’s always something exciting happening on the court, especially if you’re in Houston and get to see James Harden play on the regular. But the beard-man isn’t the only reason to get excited at a Rockets game – you’ve also got the powerful and exciting Rockets Power Dancers (RPD). Take a look at my one-on-one exclusive interview with Willy — she has my vote for best hair in all of the NBA.
If you love a girl with wild, curly hair, a passionate and motivated dreamer and someone who truly getsbasketball, Willy’s your girl. Not to mention she’s a rock star and has the moves to claim such a title. Don’t believe me? She was a backup dancer for Beyonce during the Super Bowl XLVII halftime show.
Now do you believe me?
Man Cave Daily: Where are you originally from?
Willy: New Orleans, LA–born and raised.
MCD:Occupation or school?
W: I am currently a student studying Business Administration with a specialization in Entrepreneurship. I am also a dance instructor at a local elementary school, and I assist the Rockets Entertainment Manager as a coach for the Rockets Space City Seniors… I like to stay busy!
MCD:Years on team?
W: This is my 2nd season with RPD and I made it my first try! Before moving to Houston, I was a member of the New Orleans Hornets Honeybees for two years however, I didn’t make it my first time auditioning there. I almost gave up, but decided to try again the following year, and I made the team!
MCD:Tell me about your dance background? You have moves I wish I had; I know you didn’t just learn them…
W: Oh no! I definitely did not just learn to move this way! I’ve been dancing since I was four. I’ve never been technically trained or attended dance school. I learned from music videos and by performing with dance teams. I gained my experience from these teams, and by performing as a backup dancer for several different artists, including Beyonce, during the Super Bowl XLVII half time show. I love performing and the moves just come natural to me! RPD’s style of choreography is definitely a challenge and I have to push myself! I try to take dance classes when I can just to continue improving and learning.
MCD:Hardest part about being an NBA Dancer?
W: The schedule!! We perform at 41-plus home games (excluding playoffs). Not only that, but we have practice twice a week and a certain number of community appearances we have to attend. And to top it all off, we all have to maintain another job or be full-time students (most of us do both)! It’s not all fun and games, we definitely work hard!
MCD:Have you ever gone onto the court and forgotten your routine?
W: Yep! But, because I practice so much the muscle memory saves me! We push to perform new choreography at every game, and we rarely repeat routines so I have a crazy amount of dances in my head. It’s very easy to forget the first move, but I try not to make my mistakes noticeable.
MCD:Favorite NBA player?
W: Dwight Howard–He’s a great player, but it’s what he does outside of basketball that is
2014 – 2015 NBA Dance Series sponsored by Ideal Protein Houston
inspiring. His “Block Out Violence” campaigns have been a way for him to reach out to kids and encourage them to stop violence and bullying. It says a lot about a person that cares to give back, and help our youth and the community.
MCD:Best part about basketball?
W: The entertainment of course! Besides that, the fourth quarter is always the best part of the game. The intensity of each team determined to take the win is what keeps fans on their feet. It’s also the time that the fans, including myself, are either the happiest or super stressed! We want our ROCKETS to win!
MCD:Coolest thing about the Toyota Center?
W:We have a Tundra Suite with a real Toyota Tundra Truck inside…so cool! I’m always amazed when I visit that suite.
MCD:If you had a Real Housewives intro…
W: “I’m more than just a housewife, check my resume!” (And to add the dramatic effect, I would snap my fingers.)
MCD:Miley or Taylor?
W: Taylor Swift.
MCD:Biggest misconception about NBA dancers?
W: We are not “ditzy cheerleaders!” We are real dancers/performers, and education is actually a requirement to join any team, so yes, we are knowledgeable human beings! Also, we do not date the players!
MCD:Favorite music to dance to?
W: I love dancing to ’90s R&B and rap music!
MCD:What song instantly puts you in a good mood?
W: Anything by Aaliyah. My favorite is “Try Again.” It pushes and motivates me to keep going and to not give up. If at first I don’t succeed, I dust myself off and try again. It applies to every aspect of my life.
MCD: Dream vacation?
W: I want to visit Egypt one day! I’m infatuated with Egypt’s history and would love to see the Egyptian pyramids.
MCD:Most embarrassing thing in your Google history?
W: Myself! I’ve googled myself to see what comes up under my name. No I’m not self-centered, just wondering what pops up when I type my name in Google. I was simply curious [winks]
MCD:Most random thing in your purse?
W: A straw… I hate drinking from a can without using a straw!
MCD:Fan of selfies?
W: I’m a fan of hair selfies. I love showing my wild curly hair in pictures, so I take selfies just to focus on my hair.
MCD:Favorite thing about Houston?
W: Galleria Mall–it’s huge, and I love the ice skating rink inside. Plus, all of my favorite stores are in the Galleria!
MCD:When I say the letter “W” what’s the first word that comes to mind?
W: My name of course… Willy!
MCD:What app do you use most?
W: It’s a tie between my Rockets app and the Google Maps app. I check the Rockets app everyday to stay updated. I use my Google Maps app to get around the city; I have a terrible sense of direction!
MCD:If you could go to dinner with any celebrity, who?
W: Laurieann Gibson! She’s had a very successful career as a dancer and choreographer and I would love advice from her.
MCD: Homebody or an adventurer?
W: Definitely a homebody. A wild Friday night includes watching Lifetime in bed. But, I did say that this year’s resolution would be for me to be more adventurous! So far, I haven’t committed to that idea…but hey, I still have 9 more months!
MCD:Most adventurous thing you’ve done?
W: I’ve climbed the Great Wall of China! It was a long walk, and very hot, but I did it and I learned a lot!
MCD:Tell me something people would find completely out of character?
W: I turned down my acceptance into nursing school to focus on my passion for dance and to pursue avenues in entertainment. It’s the most courageous thing I’ve done, but was definitely out of character for me because I have never wanted to disappoint my family, and they were all “pro” nursing school! I’d like to think I made the best decision. Follow your dreams people!
Check out my pal Willy on Instagram @Willi_lu and follow her team on Twitter: OfficialRPD
To see the original article which ran on CBS Man Cave Daily in the sports section, click here. You’ll also hit the jackpot with more photos of Willy!
A big thank you to Willy for giving us an exclusive interview and a big thanks to Ideal Protein Houston for sponsoring this fun series. Ideal Protein is a medically developed protocol only available from qualified professionals and provides one-on-one weight loss coaching for educational support and motivation as well as weekly weight and body measurements analysis (and much more!).
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nbY9xf4R.jpeg240240Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2015-03-30 13:03:032015-04-01 10:07:36Rockets Power Dancer Willy: A Stellar Talent
