On February 8th 2024, Naugatuck Valley League Dance Finals took place in the Woodland Regional High School Gymnasium. Even before taking home the title of NVL Champions 2024, the Woodland Dance Team expressed their excitement throughout the night.
The four teams that participated in the NVL championship worked hard to get where they are today. Especially Woodland. Senior Captain Makayla Constanti demonstrated perseverance and leadership throughout the season.
“I made sure to not get in my head, just keep pushing through, and give it the best that I got,” Constanti said. “We went out there, gave the floor everything we had, and said ‘whatever happens, happens.’”
The team made tremendous growth this season and is extremely proud of one another. Since this time last year, the team has experienced more than ever. Just recently getting back from their UDA Nationals in Florida, the pressure was on.
However, the girls did not let anything stop them from bringing home the title of NVL champs. They felt relieved as all their hard work and dedication had paid off.
Junior Captain Anna Duffany put in tireless effort leading the team throughout the season.
“Seeing all the hard work we have put in throughout the season [has finally] come together,” Anna Duffany said. “When we all came off the floor and felt like it was the best performance we have ever put out, that was the best feeling.”
The girls knew they would be proud of each other no matter what happened when the winners were announced. Winning was not easy, but nobody gave up. More specifically, the team is proud of freshman Olivia Jevarjian who was recognized by both captains.
“I am proud of the whole team because we have come so far from where we were at the beginning of the season,” Duffany said. “I am especially proud of Olivia who was put in the dance on the spot, the day of NVLs, and helped us win.”
Being only a freshman, Jevarjian is recognized for her efforts along with the whole team.
Aleksandra Kuzebska, also a freshman dancer, explained that every moment the team was together they were working hard.
“Our coach always pushed us to our greatest potential,” Kuzebska said. “She is truly amazing and we have not gotten so far without her.”
The dancers describe themselves as a family and they made sure to stay positive towards each other and themselves.
“We hype each other up and make sure to compliment one another,” Kuzebska said.
Confidence and mindset are important when performing, and the girls made sure that everyone on the team stayed positive towards one another. With the success of this season, the dancers can not wait to see what next season has in store for them.
