Dancers Reap Awards, Raise Money for Nationals

Fairfax High School dancers need your help to compete for the first time in nationals early next year. 

The dance team proved their place in the February competition by winning the Universal Dance Association's Superior Trophy, an award given to the team who accumulates the most ribbons.

Dancers spent all summer washing cars to collect the cash needed to make it to nationals in Orlando. Their biggest fundraiser, the Third Annual Fairfax Dance Team Golf Tournament, is scheduled for August 27 at Penderbrook Golf Club. Register by emailing mcgintyfamily@cox.net.

Assistant Coach Lynne Fernandes expects big things from her dancers in nationals. The team's got the ribbons to back up her hopes. Seniors Rachel Fernandes, Jessie Brown and Erin Joyce each choreographed original acts to win three UDA All American awards. They'll dance in London's New Year's Day parade as part of the honor.

"Each student was required to add two 8-counts of original choreography to the end of the routine," the coach said. "This is an amazing show of commitment and fortitude–they all danced their hearts out and came home with the prestigious medal."

FHS dancers also won UDA camp ribbons for drill downs, teamwork and show of spirit. Fernandes, Madison McGinty, Brown, Jessie Patterson, Sophie Acquah, Paige Dunleavy and Brenna Surette took home specialty awards for personal contributions and overall excellence.