The Stonehill Dance Team is making strides with the local community by hosting its first-ever Youth Dance Clinic.
The clinic hosted 75 aspiring young dancers who learned from the dance team and allowed them to join the team on the field this past weekend for the halftime dance.
Fundraising Lead Molly Rodman ‘26 said that the planning process for the event began months ago.
“This was an idea I presented after seeing other teams host similar events. As a student-funded team, we’re always searching for ways to minimize out-of-pocket costs, and the kid's clinic seemed like a perfect fit for both fundraising and community engagement” she said.
The dance team was able to partner with local businesses like Booty by Brabants, who hosted a pop-up at the dance clinic.
At the clinic, the young dancers were taught team techniques, such as jumps and kicks to use during the halftime performances and their national competition.
On Saturday, Oct. 5, 65 of the dancers from the clinic returned to cheer on the football team from the stands and then join the Stonehill dancers on the sidelines, as well as the halftime dance.
“It was incredible to see the excitement and joy on the dancers’ faces. We strive to inspire and uplift our community through our performances, and this event truly showed the bond we were able to form with these young dancers. It was especially touching when one of the children gifted me a bracelet that said 'SCDT' – moments like these remind me of why we do what we do.” said Captain Sophia Montesano.
The halftime performance was applauded by the crowd, including friends and families of the young dancers.
"The attendance was phenomenal. It was heartwarming to see so many excited kids and their families cheering us on. Even Ace the Skyhawk, our mascot, learned the routine and performed with us!” said Captain Lexi Ciallella ‘26.
The team hopes to make this an annual tradition.
"We hope this event leaves a lasting positive impact on the community. It’s a great way for us to build relationships with local youth and showcase our hardworking team,” said Captain Lexi Ciallella.
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