The St. Pius X dance team, made up of 20 students, performs at halftime of all home varsity basketball games. The team is coached by Mrs. Blanchard, with assistance from Ms. O’Connor, Director of Dance. The team learns three dances each season, two choreographed by guest artists and one by the captains. The songs for the dances include a mix of “Turn My Swag On” by Soulja Boy, “Trap Queen” by Fetty Wap, “Bandit” by Don Toliver, and many others.
St. Pius X has an outstanding dance team consisting of 20 girls from various grades. The dance team performs at halftime of all home varsity basketball games. Dance teacher Mrs. Blanchard is the head coach, and Ms. O’Connor, Director of Dance, assists her. The team learns three dances throughout the season, two of which are choreographed by special guests, while the third is choreographed and taught by the captains. The songs for the dances include a mix of “Turn My Swag On” by Soulja Boy, “Trap Queen” by Fetty Wap, “Bandit” by Don Toliver, and many others.
Senior Nadia Bryan said, “This is my fourth year, and I have gotten closer to new people who remind me just how much I love what I do.”
Over the decades, the dance team has evolved drastically, according to Ms. O’Connor.
“The dance team started as a drill team in the early ’90s but evolved into a true hip-hop dance team in the mid-2010s,” she said.
This shift marked a turning point for the program, and with the high level of interest, spots on the team have become increasingly competitive. Auditions for current students are held in mid-February, while incoming freshmen audition in April.
First-year member Abby Caiola, a senior, said, “I wish I joined sooner. I love getting ready with the girls and forming closer friendships,” adding “I love performing, and regular dance classes only perform twice a year.”
Along with the excitement of performing come pregame rituals and traditions.
“We stand in a circle, hold hands, pray, and tap each other’s feet. Once we’re done praying, we chant our special VDT chant and then go on to perform,” Bryan said.
Freshman Malin Ebersole added, “The energy is awesome, and we’re all connected as one team.”
The St. Pius dance team is more than just halftime entertainment; it’s a space where girls can connect over shared interests and form new friendships. From first-year members to seniors, each dancer finds a sense of community.
