“Glue your hands! Be sharp! Have energy!”

As drill team competition draws nearer, my teammates and I hear these words at least 12,578 days a week. Well, it seems like it. We not only hear them, we live by them.

When we were first deciding whether or not we wanted to compete, I could see the doubt and worry on the faces around me. We all wanted to do it but I could tell some of us weren’t sure if we were ready since this was our first year. I was worried about disappointing my teammates, myself and, most importantly, our fans.

Now that we have learned our routines, our worry and doubts are fading. We are eager to get better and show everyone what we are capable of doing. I personally can’t wait to show Mrs. Johnston, our sponsor, teacher and mentor, how far we have come from the very beginning.

While we prepare for the competition on Saturday, Feb. 27, in Austin, I don’t find myself getting nervous or stressed. Thanks to my wonderful teammates, I become more excited everyday instead. I become more motivated, more ready to show everyone what we have accomplished.

Even though as a team and individuals we have had to make changes, adjust and even go through some hard times, I feel like we have become stronger and closer. Everyone helps everyone. We are always giving each other tips on how to improve to make us better dancers and performers.

Going to competition might be all about winning to some. To us, to me, it’s not about getting a medal or trophy. It’s not about being the best. Winning would be fantastic, but if we don’t, I will be proud of every single girl on the team for trying and doing their best. I’m just glad to be part of such a motivated and enthusiastic team. This is definitely a part of my life that will not be forgotten.