Freedom2Dance Takes On Cheerleading Miami Dolphins

Freedom2Dance gave 7 of the school's dancers, as well as their teachers, the opportunity of a lifetime to dance alongside the Miami Dolphins Cheerleading squad in Downtown Miami.

Working in partnership with Pro-Excel, who launched their Dance Miami Project at the end of last year, the selected F2D students took part in an initial, full day’s UK rehearsal before heading out on a 4 day trip to Miami for this special cheerleading event.

On Day 1 the F2D team took part in a full day rehearsal with the whole cast of the event, before then heading off for a few hours of free time on Miami Beach, watching the sunset.

The second day was particularly special for the students as they were joined by Miami Dolphins’ Cheerleaders, Jillian Anne and Tamzin. Veteran cheerleader Alison, who is currently a member of the casting team for the Miami Dolphins, also joined in the fun with the F2D team.

Laura comments, “This was such an amazing experience to train with the ladies; and our students also enjoyed a Q&A session with the cheerleading team. All of us then really enjoyed an open top School Party Bus Tour of Miami, in the evening.”

Day 3 was Game Day, which meant it was an early start for everyone as they headed to to Hard Rock stadium. Here, the F2D girls watched the Miami Dolphins’ cheerleaders warming up for the performance.

Soon it was time for the big event, where the Freedom2Dance students got to perform alongside the professional Miami Dolphin Cheerleaders.

Michelle comments, “The atmosphere was wonderful all round and it was made more exciting as our girls got to watch the game against the New England Patriots. It really was the experience of a lifetime.”

At the end of the third day, everyone headed back to the hotel for the Rooftop Wrap Party, in Downtown Miami - an up and coming area with streets full of art work and Cuban culture. All too soon, it was then time for the long journey home.

Laura and Michelle have stated how grateful they were to the sponsors who helped make this exceptional project possible.

Laura comments, “Michelle and I appreciate every single person who donated to help us get the F2D students and teachers across to Miami for this once in a lifetime dance adventure. Our team and student dancers gained so much from the whole experience, both individually and as a dance troupe. It showed them the possibilities available through dance and hard work.”

Michelle said, “In particular we want to thank Morley Glass and Glazing, without whose support none of this would have been possible. To the students and parents who tirelessly helped to fundraise for this event, holding raffles, holiday camps, as well as raising funds at fairs and local festivals.

A big thank you to Seabrook Crisps, The Canton Chinese Takeaway and lastly, but definitely not least, thank you so much to our anonymous donor, who still has all of us guessing.”