Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/569648
14 HOME GAME PLAYBOOK SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 WINNIPEG FREE PRESS CHEER & DANCE TEAM PROFILE MADISON'S Q&A YEARS ON STUNT TEAM: Joined in 2013 HOMETOWN: Winnipeg WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO JOIN THE CHEER & DANCE TEAM? I was inspired to join the dance team because I saw it as another opportunity to do what I love with my whole heart — dance — in the city I grew up in. The opportunity to perform in such an incredible atmosphere is a feeling like no other. I also saw an opportunity to be a role model for younger girls and aspiring performers, which I love to do. My dance teacher growing up was a huge influence as well in trying out for the cheer team and I am truly thankful for her getting me to do this incredible experience. WHAT'S YOUR DANCE/ CHEERLEADING BACKGROUND? When I was four, my parents put me in my very first tap and jazz class. I was so excited to be like the dancers I saw on television and wear a tutu, but instead my first dance costume was a long dress decorated in vegetables. Needless to say I was disappointed. I loved dance even before my parents put me in a studio and I am so grateful they did. During Grade 5, I began to dance competitively while studying more disciplines and my love grew. I am so grateful for the many opportunities, teams, competitions and performances dance has provided me with, such as Canada's Got Talent, The World Tap Championships in Germany and of course …The Winnipeg Blue Bomber Cheer and Dance Team!! WHAT OTHER ATHLETIC PURSUITS DO YOU ENJOY? I love anything to do with the outdoors! You can always find me jumping on my trampoline listening to my favourite music or riding my bike on different trails. WHAT COMMUNITY EVENT DO YOU MOST LOOK FORWARD TO EACH YEAR? Every year I can't wait to host our Junior Cheer Team Clinics. It's so amazing witnessing the hard work and growth each athlete puts in for every performance. Within my past three years on the cheer team I have seen so many young dancers grow and grow each year. The excitement and pride they have after every game is so rewarding. I love watching dancers do what they love!! WHAT CHEER TEAM EXPERIENCE ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT THIS SEASON? Grey Cup being in Winnipeg!! I'm especially excited for Cheer Extravaganza, where we get to watch all the other CFL cheer teams perform! IS THERE ONE SPECIAL PLACE YOU'D SUGGEST GREY CUP FANS VISIT WHILE THEY'RE IN WINNIPEG? I love spending the day at The Forks and getting some chicken fingers with frozen yogurt for dessert! Don't forget to check out the boutiques and markets! WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I wore casts on my feet for the first 16 months of my life. WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS? In five years, I will continue to find as many opportunities as I can that share or showcase my passion for dance. I will be living on my own and loving whatever profession I choose. POSITION: DANCER