PDC Summer Edition

JESSICA

[ngg_images source=”galleries” container_ids=”545″ display_type=”photocrati-nextgen_basic_slideshow” gallery_width=”600″ gallery_height=”400″ cycle_effect=”fade” cycle_interval=”10″ show_thumbnail_link=”1″ thumbnail_link_text=”[Show thumbnails]” order_by=”sortorder” order_direction=”ASC” returns=”included” maximum_entity_count=”500″]By ProDanceCheer.com Staff

Summer is our one of our favorite times of the year and in honor of the hottest season, we selected a group of ladies from the professional sports cheer and dance world for some fun in the sun…and some luxurious swimming pools.

Since football, basketball and hockey seasons are right around the corner, enjoy our tribute to summer in the inaugural PDC: Summer Edition!

ALLY

HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN YOU A PROFESSIONAL SPORTS CHEERLEADER/DANCER?

2 years (2 NBA)

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES FROM YOUR TIME IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD?

As a professional dancer, you are expected to work extremely hard in and out of practice to be the best YOU that you can be. No matter how stressful practices and games can get, the feeling (or should I say RUSH) of dancing on the court is so rewarding! I am so lucky to be able to do what I LOVE as a job, and when I step onto the court for the first time on game day, all of my worries go away! It makes me feel good to know that I pushed myself to achieve my dreams and I just hope that I can inspire or have inspired other girls to reach for the stars and never ever give up on what they really want! There isn’t one experience that I could single out because everyday that I live out my dream is absolutely amazing. ❤️

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUMMER?

My favorite thing about summer is the fact that it’s watermelon season!!❤️ (of course, why else haha)

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER VACATION SPOT?

So far, Mexico has been my favorite vacation spot! The sunshine gives you the best tan and the beaches are so beautiful! Not to mention the food–heaven šŸ˜‰

All I had to worry about was what bikini I was going to wear that day–nothing else. The beach is my favorite place to be.

IF YOU COULD GO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM SUMMER VACATION LOCALE?

If I could go ANYWHERE in the world on vacation, I would definitely visit Hawaii. I’m obsessed with the scenery out there! Just put me on a tropical island and I will be one happy girl.

Who wouldn’t want to drink coconut water on a beach in Hawaii?! ❤️

Follow ALLY on social media: Instagram- @allynicoleee__

ASHLEY H.

HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN YOU A PROFESSIONAL SPORTS CHEERLEADER/DANCER?

5 years (NBA) 

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES FROM YOUR TIME IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD?

My favorite experiences being a professional dancer would be going to the NBA Finals my 1st year of cheering & traveling! Getting to see the crowd go crazy and being one of the best teams in the league will be something I will never forget!

Also, traveling overseas. I’ve been to Sendai, Japan & Guangzhou China! I would’ve never gone to those places if I hadn’t been been apart of the NBA! It was an absolute blast getting to meet fans all over the world and seeing a different culture!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUMMER?

My most favorite thing about summer is going to the lake! My family has a lake place so getting to relax and spending time with family & friends is the best thing!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER VACATION SPOT?

My favorite summer vacation was going to Cabo San Lucas! I love going to resorts where you’re right on the beach, there’s a golf course and all kinds of activities!

IF YOU COULD GO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM SUMMER VACATION LOCALE?

If I could go anywhere, I would have to say Figi! The island is so beautiful and it has always been a dream of mine to go there someday!

Follow Ashley on social media: Instagram @ashleyahancock and Twitter @ashleyahancock

ASHLEY W.

HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN YOU A PROFESSIONAL SPORTS CHEERLEADER/DANCER?

4 years (NBA) 

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES FROM YOUR TIME IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD?

Some of my favorite experiences from my time in the dance sports world would definitely have to be having the awesome opportunity to represent my team at the 2016 NBA All-Star game in Toronto, Canada. It was definitely a dream come true and a once in a lifetime experience. I will forever cherish and remember that exhilarating moment on January 5, 2016! Another one of my favorite experiences was having the crazy opportunity to represent my team in Chengdu and Beijing China in Summer of 2013. I was so nervous to leave out of the country being that it was my first time EVER. However, I ended up having a blast dancing out there for the fans and enjoyed every moment of the country itself. I can go all day elaborating on my favorite experiences in the dance sports world. However, I will always and forever treasure every experience that I made in my four year dance career in the sports world for the rest of my life. It was a blessing!

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION AND ARE YOU ABLE TO STILL BE INVOLVED IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD?

I am currently a full-time Graduate Student at the University of North Texas! Go Mean Green! Also, I am a part-time buyer for Stewart Processor at the Dallas Market Center. I am still involved in the cheer/dance sports world. I am able to visit high schools around the DFW metroplex and choreograph for the schoolā€™s cheer and dance team. I host dance workshops from time to time in different cities and have the opportunity to teach one on one individual training to young women who are wanting to pursue a dance career rather its for high school, college, or on a professional level. I do have the freedom to book different dance opportunities through my agency as well. I love being able to give back and care deeply about others that I come into contact with & being able to share my time and resources freely with love.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUMMER:

My favorite thing about summer would definitely have to be Fourth of July. I always look forward to the fireworks, food, and the excuse to wear red, blue, and white. Another favorite thing of mine is Summer concerts. They are literally the best! There is nothing better than enjoying great music with my girls on a Summer night. My favorite concert thus far was actually this past May at the AAC for the Chris Brown Party Tour. The energy from the audience was insane and I think that in part it was, because of the fact that it was the start of the Summer.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER VACATION?

My favorite summer vacation would definitely have to be Summer of 2015 when I went to Los Angeles, California with my best friend Daniela Rios. It was my first time ever visiting the awesome city! We visited The Grove, Melrose, Roscoes Chicken and Waffles, Little Tokyo, West Hollywood, Santa Monica Pier and beach, and so much more. I literally tried so many different restaurants and what top the trip was attending the famous hit show Empire concert at the grove. It was definitely a trip that I will always remember so much fun!

IF YOU COULD GO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM SUMMER VACATION LOCALE?

If I could go anywhere in the world for a summer vacation it would definitely be to Paris, France. Itā€™s the world most romantic city and I have always wanted to visit there since I was a child. I want to visit the famous Eiffel Tower, the beautiful parks and gardens, the art museums, and of course sample all of the food and chocolate out there. Paris has a unchanging elegance that I admire and there is so much history that I would love to visit and see.

Follow Ashley on social media: Instagram: @ashley_v_williams and Twitter @_AshVictoria91

BRITTANY

HOW MANY YEARS WERE YOU A SPORTS CHEERLEADER/DANCER:

4 years

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES FROM YOUR TIME IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD?

  • Traveling for basketball to NYC and Kansas City, Missouri 
    • Going to the childrenā€™s hospital, meeting the patients (KC)
    • Cheering on the NBC Today Show (NYC)
  • Writing letters to soldiers overseas
  • Cheering in the Valero Alamo Bowl and winning one of the greatest comebacks in bowl game history
  • Achieving Colligate All-American Award

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION AND ARE YOU ABLE TO STILL BE INVOLVED IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD?

During the past four years I was a full time student at TCU. However, Iā€™m now taking a year off to start my career, and am currently in the interview process for pharmaceuticals sales. It is a possibility that I might try out for a team next year. 

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUMMER?

Traveling as much as possible, spending days at the pool, Rangers games, and spending time with friends and family in Dallas.

TALK ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER VACATIONS:

  • Seattle, Washington: exploring the Public Market Center
  • Chicago, Illinois: learning about the history, architecture, and MANY great places to eat.
  • Cabo San Lucas: Iā€™ve been twice this year. I love cliff jumping, and spending time at the beach!

IF YOU COULD GO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM SUMMER VACATION SPOT AND WHY:

Although, this time in Australia is winter, Iā€™m dying to see the Great Barrier Reef. It is the worldā€™s largest single structure made by living organisms stretching over 2,600 KM and visible from outer space. There is only a limited amount of time to see the reef as coral bleaching has become more prevalent. 

Follow Brittany on social media: Instagram @brittany_gibson_

Special thanks to:

Gray co-ord outfit: @shoppriceless or shoppriceless.com

Sunless airbrush tanning: @tan2glow_fortworth or www.tan2flow.com/

Summer hair: Becky Ybanez at Trio Hair Concepts in Fort Worth, TX

Eyelash Extensions: Jennifer @lashes_del_rae

CAITLYN

HOW MANY YEARS WERE YOU A PROFESSIONAL SPORTS CHEERLEADER/DANCER:

2 years (NFL)

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES FROM YOUR TIME IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD:

As a sports fanatic, nothing beat the feeling of being right in the middle of the action during the games. Also, being able to do so much in my community was so rewarding. We did so many charity events and appearances at hospitals and schools. It meant a lot to be able to give back to our city. 

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION AND ARE YOU ABLE TO STILL BE INVOLVED IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD:

I’m currently a recruiter and a broadcaster. I work with a local tv station in Houston doing some fun summer promotions, and I hosted a sports talk series on their website. 

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUMMER:

Going to the lake with my friends and going out on the boat. I’m terrible at wakeboarding and wake surfing but I still have so much fun doing it! Plus there’s not much better than being on a boat on a hot day. 

TALK ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER VACATION:

I went to Jamaica for one of my best friend’s wedding exactly a year ago. The weather was absolutely incredible, the wedding was beautiful, and I had the perfect date. We had such a relaxing, perfect time and I got to see one of my favorite people in the world marry the love of her life. 

IF YOU COULD GO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM SUMMER VACATION SPOT AND WHY:

I would go to the Maldives. I want to stay in one of the little bungalow hotels! They look so incredible and the water looks so blue. I would do anything to go out there for a week and do nothing but lay out and watch the fish. 

Follow Caitlyn on social media: Instagram: @caitlynbeth_3 // Twitter: @caitlynbeth_3

JESSICA

HOW MANY YEARS WERE YOU A PROFESSIONAL SPORTS CHEERLEADER/DANCER?

8 years (5 NFL, 3 NBA)

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES FROM YOUR TIME IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD?

There are way too many to choose from!!! I definitely loved visiting our troops oversees during the holidays. That is something I will never forget. It also was pretty amazing performing with huge artists like Blake Shelton, Pitbull, Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, Selena Gomez, the list goes on!

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION?

Commercial real estate investments and development!! It literally has zero to do with dance and is super challenging, but I feel like a #girlboss everyday and I love it.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUMMER?

Baseball games. Roof tops. Pool parties. Texas sunsets.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER VACATION?

After graduation my family took a Mediterranean cruise around France, Italy and Spain. I’m dying to go back!

IF YOU COULD GO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM SUMMER VACATION LOCALE?

Greece

Follow JESSICA on social media: Instagram: @jessicamarie127 and Twitter: @jessmarie127

KAT

HOW MANY YEARS WERE YOU A PROFESSIONAL SPORTS CHEERLEADER/DANCER: 

One (NFL)

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES FROM YOUR TIME IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD : Nothing can describe the feeling of cheering at my first very first NFL game or performing w/ Luke Bryan for the Thanksgiving Halftime Show for millions watching at home! But the best memories are the ones that nobody else really gets to see! One of my all time favorites is when we all piled into a bus and went to our annual campout. Since weā€™re pretty much always ā€œcamera readyā€, we finally got to get down & dirty w/ no makeup or a care in the world! We had a BLAST riding 4-wheelers, skeet shooting, piling up like sardines in tents and searching for hogs all hours of the night. Moments like that and late night rehearsals when weā€™re all losing our mindsā€¦ thatā€™s when you really get to know each other off of the field.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION AND ARE YOU ABLE TO STILL BE INVOLVED IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD (If so, how?) After retiring, I ended up signing with a talent agency here in Dallas and Iā€™ve had a blast working on all kinds of projects! I recently finished working on an episode of Day 5 for their second season which airs August 6. I also got the amazing opportunity to work on a SAG Feature Film called Support The Girls which will premier at the end of this year or early 2018.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUMMER: Where do I even start!? First off, I just love when the days get longer and you can make the most of every day. Another thing is that Iā€™m ALWAYS cold, so I love being able to throw on a sundress or some shorts any time of the day (especially in Texas because we have those hot summer nights)! And of course I canā€™t forget to mention itā€™s the season of BASEBALL Yā€™ALL!

TALK ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER VACATION (where you went and why, if there is more than one, feel free to expand and I’ll alter the question) : Last year, my boyfriend and I took off to Jamaica for about a week and had an amazing time. YEH MON. We rode horses in the ocean, climbed waterfalls (still surprised/thankful neither of us took a tumble) and soaked up the Jamaican sun! One of my other favorite summer memories was the summer just after high school when I had the opportunity to perform alongside other dancers and gymnast in a show called ā€œSummer Nightsā€ at Sea World, San Diego. Since our show was at night, we got to spend our days surfing and lounging on the gorgeous beaches of San Diego, and at night we would have bonfires at the beach.

IF YOU COULD GO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM SUMMER VACATION SPOT AND WHY: There are so many places that I want to go and itā€™s so hard to know until Iā€™ve been there! But Iā€™ve always wanted to go island hopping in Greece. It looks breathtaking!

Social media that you would like to include: Instagram: @KatKatRogers // Twitter: @KatKatRogers

KATHRYN

HOW MANY YEARS WERE YOU A PROFESSIONAL SPORTS CHEERLEADER/DANCER: 

Three years (NBA) 

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES FROM YOUR TIME IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD:

Dancing, for me, was a great segway into my career. Dancing for a nationally acclaimed team was able to give me a foot in the door of the places I needed to be career-wise. But with that being said, it didnā€™t come easy and was no means ā€œhanded to meā€ because I was a dancer. I hustled and networked during my years as a dancer and luckily have some pretty impressive resume-builders to show for it. When I wasnā€™t dancing in a game, I was working in the replay/broadcast room and I even got to emcee some games alongside Chris Arnold! Iā€™m incredibly grateful of all the people who got me to where I am today in the sports media world. Career highlight? I got to interview with Steph Curry during a Mavs vs Warriors game. How cool is THAT?!

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION AND ARE YOU ABLE TO STILL BE INVOLVED IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD (If so, how?)

Dancing for the NBA was a great segway into the sports media world, but now I am working on a transition into more of the lifestyle genre. I worked as a field reporter for the ā€œToday with Kandaceā€ show, a lifestyle morning show in Dallas, and fell in love with the idea of taking viewers through a variety of topics relating to home, health & beauty, leisure, and community. I met so many interesting people and every day of my job was completely different than the rest! Iā€™ve since launched my blog, www.itskathryndunn.com, with the goal to someday turn it into my own lifestyle television show. So far itā€™s been a great success and Iā€™ve landed major collaborations with Dillardā€™s, The Four Seasons, Lyft, and various boutiques and brands across the United States. I have an upcoming collaboration with a VERY popular boutique, but thatā€™s under wraps for now. All I can say is stay tuned, and huge thank you to everyone who has read and shared my blog thus far. Exciting things to come for itskathryndunn.com!
Additionally, I do commercial acting and film industrial videos and commercials for various companies. Barbeque, Spine specialists, car dealerships, college EMBA programs, custom windowsā€¦ I do it all! Iā€™ve gotten to the point that when people ask what I do for a living I have to stop and think, ā€œhmmā€¦ where do I start?ā€

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUMMER: The weather! My mood is a direction reflection on the weather outside. When it is cold and dreary, I feel so ā€œblah.ā€ But when itā€™s warm and sunny? Watch out world, because Iā€™m about to have a productive day!

IF YOU COULD GO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM SUMMER VACATION SPOT AND WHY?
One of the reasons I started blogging is because while I was scrolling through instagram I noticed that the Grand Velas Resort in Riviera Maya had sent some popular lifestyle bloggers out there to enjoy an all-inclusive stay at their oh-so luxurious resort. I instantly made it my goal to travel the world, do what I love, while blogging about my experiences. First place on my blog bucket list? Santorini, Greece! (P.S. if youā€™re reading this and looking for a blogger/influencer to do a piece on your hotelā€¦. @ me!)

Social media that you would like to include: Instagram @katdunn // Twitter @itskathryndunn // Blog itskathryndunn.com

KAYLA

HOW MANY YEARS WERE YOU A PROFESSIONAL SPORTS CHEERLEADER/DANCER?

3 years (2 NHL, 1 MASL)

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES FROM YOUR TIME IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD?

My favorite experience was stepping (scratch that, hair flipping) onto the platform in the American Airlines Center for the first time. Hearing the crowd and seeing the lights flashing made my heartbeat a million miles an hour!

I also can’t describe the feeling of being a part of a team of beautiful, strong, talented, and most of all KIND women. I got so lucky to get to be a part of something that’s worlds bigger than all of us, and getting to experience every one of those big moments with them… indescribable.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION?

I am still in college studying speech pathology and audiology as well as child learning and development, but this past year I co-founded and co-own a digital media marketing company called “Nectar List Media” and have fallen in love with every aspect of our business.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUMMER?

Bikinis. Duh. šŸ˜‰ (Just kidding) Having a little extra time to travel is what I love most about Summer. Actually right now while I’m writing this I’m finishing up a month long adventure in Kauai. (It’s amazing btw, everyone should go at some point.)

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER VACATION SPOT?

KAUAI. Currently I’m watching the sun start to dip down over the horizon and I’m loving every second of it. There’s endless activities on the island, and ENDLESS aƧai bowls. YUM.

IF YOU COULD GO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM SUMMER VACATION LOCALE?

Greece is way up on my list of places to go, for so many reasons; the water, the architecture, the food. But I plan on seeing a whole lot of the world here soon, and I’m so excited to see what my new favorite spot will be.

Follow KAYLA on social media: (Personal) @ablondebeyond // (Business) @nectarlistmedia

MEREDITH

HOW MANY YEARS WERE YOU A PROFESSIONAL SPORTS CHEERLEADER/DANCER?

2 years (NBA, G League basketball)

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES FROM YOUR TIME IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD?

I have many experiences I enjoyed while being on a professional dance team. One being tryouts. I got the opportunity to check off my buck list that I made the team of my dreams. I did something that a lot of girls give there all to and knowing that I pushed myself to that limit to achieve my goals was exhilarating. I loved getting to meet my teammates because they grew into such beautiful friendships that will stay with me forever. Another one of my favorite experiences was dancing on the court in front of thousands of fans. That feeling is unforgettable. Words couldn’t describe how amazing that feeling felt.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION AND ARE YOU ABLE TO STILL BE INVOLVED IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD?

I am currently working at the ETL (Executive Team Leader) Human Resources at Target. I am currently still reaching for my goals to be in the dance world!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUMMER?

My absolute favorite thing about summer is being in the water. Whether it’s the pool, ocean, lake.. you name it and I’m there!!!

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER VACATION?

My ultimate favorite summer vacation is when I went on a cruise to Italy, Sicily, Greece, Rome, and Turkey. It was absolutely breathtaking. I can’t wait to go back!

IF YOU COULD GO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM SUMMER VACATION LOCALE?

Honestly, I do not have a specific place because I love to travel. I plan on visiting so many countries. Traveling is good for the soul and you get the opportunity to see how others live and different cultures. Everything about traveling is incredibly beautiful. (Expect flying… I hate flying).

Follow Meredith on social media: Instagram: @MeredithBarnett

SEQUEL

HOW MANY YEARS WERE YOU A PROFESSIONAL SPORTS CHEERLEADER/DANCER:

Five years (NBA)

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES FROM YOUR TIME IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD?

In 2012 was honored to be one of six dancers from my team chosen to represent the NBA in China! This was such an amazing experience. One that I will treasure for the rest of my life.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION AND ARE YOU ABLE TO STILL BE INVOLVED IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD (If so, how?)

I am currently the business administrator at HEB Dental; and coordinator of Wehrle Implant Immersion Course. I’m honored to still get the privilege to be involved with the dancers. For the last past 3 years I’ve been a Makeup Artist for the Dallas Mavericks Dancers calendar shoot.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUMMER:

My family’s lake house! You can find us there most of the summer!

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER VACATION?

Costa Rica has been one of the most memorable vacations! So many amazing activities. ATV tour, Zipline, Island river boat Safari, offshore sport fishing, rain forest hike, and waterfall jumping! I absolutely enjoyed immersing myself in the natural beauty of Costa Rica.

IF YOU COULD GO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM SUMMER VACATION SPOT AND WHY

Bora Bora! The idea of the private overwater bungalows with glass floors sounds like the perfect escape!

SYDNEY

HOW MANY YEARS WERE YOU A PROFESSIONAL SPORTS CHEERLEADER/DANCER:

8 years (7 NFL, 1 NBA)

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES FROM YOUR TIME IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD?

While cheering in the NFL, my favorite experience will always be the USO tours overseas each holiday season. Performing for our troops and bringing joy to their families in South Korea, Japan, China, Kuwait, Bahrain, Guam, Hawaii and other countries was such an incredible experience and one that I will never forget.

As an NBA dancer, the entire season was filled with fun and memorable experiences, however one that stands out in my mind is the time I was selected to participate in one of the ā€œfree-throwā€ halftime games. I walked out in uniform and was handed a basketballā€”the crowd was cheering, I was laughing because I had absolutely no idea how to correctly throw the ball, but when the competition started, I threw the ball and SCORED! It was a fun and exciting moment; and my husband who absolutely loves basketball was so proud!

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION AND ARE YOU ABLE TO STILL BE INVOLVED IN THE CHEERLEADER/DANCER SPORTS WORLD?

I am the owner of Live Love GamedayĀ®ā€”a comfortable and trendy sports-themed clothing and accessories brand based out of Dallas, Texas. Our original phrase, Home Is Where the Field IsĀ®, was launched in January 2015, my last season cheering in the NFL, because the field truly was my home away from home. From there we began releasing designs for baseball, basketball, hockey and more. Through LLG, I am able to create custom designs for dance/cheer teams, not only in the DFW area, but across the U.S. which is a fun way to still be involved in the #ProDanceCheer world without having to actually throw on a uniform and perform!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUMMER:

As the owner of Live Love GamedayĀ®, spring (baseball season) and fall (football season) are actually my two favorite seasons, however I love the summertime because the sun is shining and everyone is smiling! I love taking family vacations during the summer and spending time with loved ones before our schedules pick back up. Plus, the smell of saltwater, coconut oil, and suntan lotion really makes me happy!

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER VACATION?

Summer 2015 would have to be my favorite. My husband , Jay, and I (he was not my hubby yet) traveled overseas to Montefiore dell’Aso, a small town in Italy filled with beautiful countryside, rolling hills, delicious food, vineyards and a local beach. We have family in the area, so we went to spend time with them and meet his baby niece for the first time. It was during our summer vacation in Italy that Jay got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. The flight back home to Dallas was definitely a happy oneā€¦the happiest one!

IF YOU COULD GO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM SUMMER VACATION LOCALE?

I love to travel, especially when there is a beach involved. There are still a few Caribbean islands we have never been to, so I am hoping that our next destination will be either Anguilla, Virgin Gorda or Eleuthera!

Follow SYDNEY on social media: Instagram: @sydneybdurso and @livelovegameday // Twitter: @SydneyDurso // Blog: www.llgblog.com

CREDITS: Interviews: Jay Betsill Photographers: Dustin Schneider, Jamie Ford, Roman Pena, George Walker and Dominic Ceraldi. Assistant: Jeff Lord. Social Media: Mike Tovar.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: Hilton Anatole Hotel, W Dallas Victory Hotel and Residences and Prime Cut Steakhouse & Club.

About Pro Dance Cheer 1691 Articles
ProDanceCheer.com is the premier lifestyle site for those in the professional sports dance and cheer world. Fans will also find coverage of college dance and cheer teams as well as fitness, fashion, travel, entertainment and sports to keep you informed on the "PDC" world.