Warrior Pride, a dance team consisting of students in grades 9-12, began preparing for another successful year.

This elective encourages students to try out and join a team where they have opportunities to perform as well as give back to the community.

“Warrior Pride is a spirit organization whose purpose is to allow girls to be a part of a team and support other groups,” Warrior Pride Director Mrs. Angelique Scrudder said.

Joining Warrior Pride is a good way to balance dance with other academic activities. The team is geared toward students who want to pursue dancing, but need a less demanding time commitment.

This year the team consists of 40 girls, including 24 new members.

“I wanted to join Warrior Pride because of the dance experience it offers,” Mikayla Harris ‘18 said.

Currently, the girls are working on a Pom routine for their upcoming performance at a JV football game. They are eager to perform and show off their hard work. For seniors, this is a year to be cherished.

“I am going to miss everything,” Lauren Massey ‘14 said. “The family, the memories, and all the experiences we have had together.”

On top of being a prestigious dance team, Warrior Pride is always finding a way to volunteer and help others. An annual event they participate in is cheering for participants running in the Race for the Cure, an organization that promotes breast cancer awareness.

Warrior Pride also does charitable work throughout the year. Previously, the team has hosted drives, donated the supplies to the Leander food pantry, and even performed at retirement homes.

The girls have exciting plans for this year. From Homecoming to Escapade, there are many performance opportunities. They will also be featured in the annual Westwood Dance Classic competition. Finally, at the end of the year, the team will have the chance to host their own show called the Warrior Pride Showcase.