My vision for the Dragonettes is a team that is focused on a common goal - whether that goal is a flawless football routine, or knock-out Spring show, or the trophy that comes home from contest season.
To that end, they work as one to accomplish what they could never do alone.
The Dragonette sisterhood should be one that causes each girl to put aside petty differences, and to reach out to one another in friendship and support, because that is what will allow them to perform and compete successfully.
To become a Dragonette is a great honor and privilege.
As a Dragonette, each girl should uphold the values of the organization and should strive towards being a young lady with class and dignity.
They should always behave in a way that reflects positively on the team.
They have all worked so hard to get to where they are; they have earned the right to hold their heads up high, and be proud of who they are and what they are a part of.
When they walk into the dance studio, they should be focused on the job at hand, and not allow themselves to be distracted by personality differences or other issues that divert their energy and ability to succeed.
Anything other than dedication to the Dragonettes should be left at the door.
Discipline is a vital part of Drill Team.
Discipline is not something that comes naturally to most teenaged girls, but I believe it is an aspect of drill team that cannot be overly stressed.
Each girl has to be disciplined enough to come to school early every day, and practice when she doesn’t really feel like it, and to smile when she is hurting, and to say Thank You when she is corrected by a senior member.
They have to show up on time, with the right equipment and remember their routine for that week, at the same time they are trying out for an upcoming performance.
They have to swallow their disappointment when they don’t make a routine, and they can’t gloat when they do.
If they are talented in one area, they are expected to share their skills.
If they are weak in an area, they are expected to be grateful for the constructive criticism they receive.
And they do all of this, no matter what the weather, all the while pointing their toes!
I ask a lot from the members of this drill team.
I ask that they practice their kicks every night, and to sit in the splits when they are watching TV.
I ask that they treat each other with respect, and that they come to me with problems before they get blown out of proportion.
I ask that they think “What would be best for the team?” before they ask what would be best for themselves.
And I ask that they allow themselves to fully experience the challenge and the rewards that team membership has to offer.
I want those smiles to be genuine; I want this experience to be a positive, nurturing process of growth for these girls.
And, I know it can be; it certainly was for me.
When each of these girls looks back on their years as a Dragonette, I want their memories to be of a time of happiness and fulfillment, with no regrets.
I can’t say that it will all be fun, but it will all be worth it in the end.
