Bittersweet Farewell

Last night I said a bittersweet farewell and hung up my pom poms.  I’ve been writing this post for months now trying to get through each sentence without crying.  For the past 7 years I’ve had literally the coolest job in the world…dancing in the NBA.  Dancing in the NBA has been a dream of mine since I can remember.  I started dance at the age of 3 and am privileged to still be doing it.  Even though I am choosing to move on this decision was not taken lightly.  Hey, I just might change my mind before I’m finished writing this!

My career with the Sixers began back in 2010 as I graduated college.  Right before graduation, I auditioned for the Philadelphia Eagles cheerleaders and did not make it.  Discouraged (or dramatic) I never wanted to audition.  Hearing “no” when you know you are good enough is so heartbreaking.  On to the Sixers audition I went.  Surprisingly, I did not make the team my first year.  I got a phone call about a month after hearing the devastating news and my coach told me that one of the girls was not continuing.  Guess who had the next highest score….me!

Obviously I accepted the job offer after that phone call and was thrown into a world that would forever change my life.  7 years later I wouldn’t trade any of it for the world.  I’ve gained lifelong friends which I refer to as my “Sixers Sisters” and 3 of them are bridesmaids in my wedding!  I’ve traveled all over the world…Las Vegas, 2 trips to China, 1 trip to Bilbao Spain and Manchester England with a stop in Germany in between.  I’ve experienced loss when I broke my foot my 6th season and I experience redemption coming back for this 7th and final season.  Hey, they say that 7 is the number of completion.

Here are a couple of pictures from each season throughout the years.

Rookie Year 2010-11

Year 2 2011-12

Year 3 2012-13

Year 4 2013-14

Year 5 2014-15

Year 6 2015-16

Year 7 2016-17

I have no idea what the future holds for me and dance but I wouldn’t trade this opportunity for the world.  From the bottom of my heart I’m so thankful to the Sixers organization, fans, family, my coaches, amazing teammates and you guys for all of your support over the years.  The best is yet to come.

Thank you for reading!