Pom is an often-overlooked sport, and few truly understand what it takes for these athletes to be successful. Spectators can see Southmoore pom at other sporting events for countless hours all year long. Moore Public Schools spirit coordinator Ladawna Hunter has firsthand experience with the rigorous schedule the girls go through.
“They practice during the summer and immediately start boot camps in August,” said Hunter. “At boot camps, they’re learning sidelines, halftime routines, dance moves for assemblies in addition to preparing their competition dances they are going to do at State and Nationals.”
Aside from learning new routines, there is still schoolwork to stay on top of. Also, being a member of the team does not guarantee a spot next year. Pom has tryouts in March every year, adding even more pressure.
Southmoore finished third in the 6A Large Hip-hop Division and second in the Large Jazz Division. The squad did not stop there as they fine tuned their routines and went to Florida to compete at Nationals. Southmoore dominated their routines and brought back titles in both the Large Varsity Hip-hop and Large Varsity Jazz Divisions.
This year, Southmoore pom was led by senior captain Abi Yaffe, who was the ultimate package.
“She’s definitely dedicated to this team,” said Hunter. “For her to be on the team since her freshman year and put in the same amount of hard work is why she was named as the senior captain.”
Another leader on the team is senior co-captain Peyton Koepke.
“She has outstanding leadership abilities and is a fabulous dancer,” said Hunter. “She’s already signed to dance in college next year and is in the top of her league in outside studio dances. Dance companies and choreographers call her throughout the year for help at clinics and conventions.”
Last, but certainly not least is senior co-captain Maci Kletke.
“Maci has really developed since her freshman year as a dancer and leader,” said Hunter. “You knew she would be in the dance, but by her senior year she’s getting all the attention.”– SMS
By T.J. Turner
