Westmoore pom brought back 6A State titles in Small Jazz, Large Hip-hop and Prop divisions. They also brought back hardware from Nationals where the Jags won Medium Jazz division and finished runner-up in the medium Hip-hop division. Westmoore pom head coach Natalie Zielny credits her team for keeping the tradition of winning going.
“I really think it’s just the kids that come in being committed to working hard,” said Zielny.
Zielny was extremely proud of her team for how well they balanced such a hectic schedule.
“Not only are you working hard at the sport that’s not viewed as a sport by most, while still being responsible for all of the stuff at the school,” said Zielny.
Westmoore pom attends every other sport event, including Special Olympics, assemblies and other events that come up.
“My kids usually train outside at dance studios and are competitive there as well,” said Zielny. “Some of them are dancing an additional 20 hours a week just to stay consistent and get better.”
While the schedule is quite strenuous, Zielny believes the recognition from those outside of the program gives the team a boost.
“At Westmoore, we’re pretty lucky to have support from the parents and administration,” said Zielny. “We are pretty well respected at our school as a sport, and I know that’s not the case at a lot of other schools.”
Some of the key leaders for the Jaguars this year are seniors Kynlee Patnode (captain), Grace Cerney (co-captain), Kansas Mansker (senior officer), Addison Barrett (senior officer) and junior Piper Zielny (dance captain).
“This is one of the best years we’ve had, especially with the seniors,” said Zielny. “They’ve all loved Westmoore pom since they were little and couldn’t wait to be on the team. They were the best teammates, role models and most importantly, kind.” – SMS
