​Nationals Spotlight: Maggie S. & Colleen W.

2020 Qualifier

Name: Maggie S.
 
Age: 13
 
Congratulations on qualifying for Nationals back in 2020! I know it must have been disappointing when last year was cancelled, but do you think this extra time has made you a stronger competitor? What have you learned about yourself as a dancer this last year?
 
I think that this extra time has been super helpful for me. It has given me lots of time to improve and build my stamina. This year made me realize how much I value dancing in-person, with friends to cheer me on, because online dance was a challenge! 
 
What are you most looking forward to about Nationals?
 
I am looking forward to the experience of dancing with very advanced dancers, and being able to have fun with friends!! 

What have you missed the most about competing more regularly this year? (And what have you definitely NOT missed about competing?)
 
I have missed the familiarity of dancing on stage in front of others, but I haven't missed the stress and pressure!! 
 
What’s your proudest dance achievement so far? Any future dance goals you’re setting for yourself?
 
My biggest dance achievement is winning Trad-Set at the Oireachtas!! I hope that by the time I am done dancing, I will World Qualify!! 
 
Have you ever visited Phoenix before? Any plans while you’re there beyond dancing?
 
I haven't, and I'm going to Sedona with friends!! 
 
What’s your favorite dance to compete in? Which do you think is your strongest?
 
I think my Set dance is my strongest, but I enjoy doing Reel the most because it's upbeat and lively! 
 
What advice would you give a dancer hoping to qualify for Nationals?
 
I would tell people who wish to qualify for Nationals that they should remember to keep a positive mindset. This year has been tough, but I feel like half the reason I have improved is because I believe in myself and have confidence in my dancing. ​

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Nationals Veteran

Name: Colleen W.
 
Age: 14
 
Congratulations on qualifying for Nationals! It’s been so long since the last major in November of 2019—what are you most looking forward to this year?
 
Being on the big stage again.
 
You must have changed so much since November 2019! What have you learned over the last year and a half about yourself as a dancer?
 
One dance day does not define your entire dance career.
 
What past National competition was your favorite? Why?
 
Vancouver 2019, it was my first recall.
 
What have you missed the most about competing? (And what have you definitely NOT missed about competing?)
 
I missed seeing my friends from other schools and I did not miss doing my wig.
 
What’s your proudest dance achievement so far? Any future dance goals you’re setting for yourself?
 
My proudest achievement is recalling at nationals and I hope to do it again,
 
What’s your favorite dance to compete in? Which do you think is your strongest?
 
My favorite is my set and I also think its my strongest.
 
Have you ever visited Phoenix before? Any plans while you’re there beyond dancing?
 
I’ve never been before, I plan to go to the Grand Canyon.
 
As someone who’s been to Nationals before, what’s your advice to dancers competing there for the first time?
 
Don’t stress about it, just think about having fun.
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This post is the first of a series. Check out the blog every Monday and Thursday for more posts about Irish history, dance culture, community news, and spotlights on our dancers, staff, and families—among other fun projects! And don’t forget to dance along with us on both Facebook and Instagram.​

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