By Nairée Taveras
Contributing Writer
The SBU step team is back, and going harder than ever before. After its successful opening performance at the basketball pep rally, the dancers are looking forward to another good performance.
The team is hosting a talent show for the community on Wednesday, Nov. 12 and Thursday, Nov. 13 in the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts. Any individual or group is welcome to participate.
The step team’s coach, Kerelle Caldwelle, explained that by challenging the team, she has pushed them to do top-notch work. Caldwelle has seen the step team come a long way from its lack of leadership and disorganization when she first began coaching them.
“I am proud of how the team has progressed, but there is always room for improvement.” Caldwelle said.
Javonna Simmons, captain of the step team, has been performing since high school and is a second-year member of the Bonaventure team.
Initially, the step team needed some work but now that it has even more talented girls, the team has seen improvement in its overall performance, says Simmons.
Having more dedicated people and strong leadership has added to the spirit and cheer of the team.
The SBU step team is surely creating a name for themselves with a number of freshman girls. Malaika Worshman, a freshman sports studies major, explained that at first it was difficult, but she loved working as a team.
“It was initially overwhelming, but so satisfying when all of our hard work is coordinated and sounds great,” Worshman said.
Worshman explained that the key to the team’s success is the strong bonds between the team members. There is an evident cohesiveness among the members that allows them to work well with each other. Members have a mutual respect for one another that allows them to accept criticism, Worshman.
The step team is a group of young women and a few young men who are doing a remarkable job in an attempt to bring fun, sound and unity onto campus, added Simmons.
With a tough and motivating coach, Bonaventure students can expect the team to perform at a top level. Having had only two weeks of practice, the team relies on the hard work and dedication of the team members. Caldewelle guaranteed the team’s performance next week will be a success.
Tickets are now on sale for the talent show. They are $3 for students and $5 for adults and can be purchased at the Quick Center. Any individuals or groups interested in performing should contact Simmons.
