UD Dance Team’s rebrand marks the start of a new era
Photo credit Olivia Shirk for Flyer News
Clare Mathews | Sports Editor
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with the current president of the University of Dayton Dance Team about the exciting endeavors planned for the season. Shelby LaMattina, a native of Hazlet, New Jersey is currently in her third season with the UD Dance Team and her second semester as the President. The Junior Entrepreneurship major has played a huge role in the development and increase in professionalism of the Dance Team over these past few seasons.
The Dance Team at Dayton is considered a club sport, but members still have to go through an audition process in order to be a part of the team. When Shelby joined as a Freshman, the team was not particularly what she and many of the other new members had expected. It was quite casual, with laid-back practices and few performances. When a new President was elected in the Spring of 2022, the upward trajectory of the team was kickstarted. The team got new uniforms, new shoes, and they even began competing against other dance teams from schools nearby. Although this first event was only a small local competition, it got members excited for more to come with UDDT.
Last school year was also a year of significant growth for the team. This past spring is when Shelby was elected to her position as President. She wasted no time in getting started with the big plans for the upcoming fall semester.
One huge step for the team has been their presence at the Flyers Football home games. Not only is UDDT performing at Halftimes, they also cheer on the sidelines and keep the energy up in the stadium. The team has also brought their energy to the Frericks Center to cheer on Flyers Volleyball. Additionally, for the first time, this year’s new uniform actually includes the word “team,” as opposed to past uniforms that read “Dayton Flyers Dance Club.”
UDDT’s schedule this year is packed with exciting events. From a halftime performance at Dayton Men’s Basketball’s home opener to a dance competition this upcoming February, the dancers look forward to all that is to come in these upcoming months! Follow @udaytondanceteam on Instagram to stay up to date with them this season!