With their synchronized movements, the Raiderettes captivated the audience with each step.

Making and teaching the dance routine was Elle Ceaser’s biggest challenge.

“It took a lot of work,” Elle, 8th, said.

Jacqueline Hernandez, 8th, found practicing the dances in a week or less stressful.

“They were hard to remember,” Jacqueline said.

Doing the splits was hard for Monique Lira, 8th.

“I wasn’t very flexible,” Monique said.

Isabella Johnson, 8th, faced stage fright.

“Everyone would stare when we danced on the football field,” Isabella said.

Aaliyah Rangel, 7th, felt that performing during basketball season was scary since they were closer to the audience.

“After doing it more, I got used to it,” Aaliyah said.

Essence Wilkerson, 8th, felt that drama affected the team.

“Although there wasn’t a lot when there was, it seemed like it was never ending, but Coach Cecil settled it, and made things better,” Essence said.

Zeriah Criswell, 7th, agreed.

“At first there was a lot of drama, but we fixed it,” Zeriah said.

Elle’s best memory mentoring younger Raiderettes was building relationships with them because it helped the team come together.

“My advice for new dancers is to not argue with your teammates because you aren’t going to get along all the time,” Elle said.

Dahlia Lopez-Chacon, 8th, agreed.

“You can’t be rude to others, and you have to work as a team,” Dahlia said. “My advice to new Raiderettes is to alway have a good attitude because you wont get anywhere with a bad attitude. Also, don’t forget to have fun and enjoy yourself.”

Jacqueline suggested that new dancers have fun and stop caring what other people say.

“At the end of the day, people are still going to have something to say,” Jacqueline said.

Isabella enjoyed teaching the new Raiderettes how to do things.

“It brings back that moment of when I was the one being taught,” Isabella said. “My advice to new dancers is to be yourself and don’t get into arguments. Don’t post bad things about others, and stay out of trouble.”

Madison Rayford, 8th, encouraged new dancers to get to know their teammates and have fun.

“If you’re going to be a Raiderette, you have to feel like family,” Madison said.

Kayana Black, 8th, suggests that new dancers try hard.

“Always do your best and don’t give up,” Kayana said.

Rhea Grear, 8th, believed that new Raiderettes should not give in to nerves.

“Also, if you have any ideas or thoughts you wanna express, do it because you’re probably gonna regret not saying anything,” Rhea said.

Other than advice, the Raiderettes had moments they loved best.

“I liked the lock-in because we got to get closer and had lots of fun,” Elle said.

Katarra Castleberry, 7th, also liked the lock-in.

“We all danced until our feet hurt,” Katarra said.

Madison liked going out of town on the bus.

“We really bonded while on the way to our location,” Madison said.

Essence loved being able to walk with her dad on 8th grade night.

“I also liked having the privilege of going places as a team on away games for football and basketball,” Essence said.

Coach Cecil is proud of the leadership and citizenship her Raiderettes showed at school.

“Being a good role model is a big part of being on the dance team,” Coach Cecil said.