Names: Vanessa Pikulski and Jaclyn Squiccimarri

Sport: Dance

Grade: Seniors

The Lowdown: The Pascack Valley Regional Dance Team recently attended their National Competition in Florida. The team finished first out of thirty two teams, to become of the National Champion of DTU (Dance Team Union).

What They Like Most About Their Sport: 

Pikulski said that dance is the only sport she has ever tried that has made her “feel like myself” and she feels the most comfortable while dancing. Squiccimarri said that dance allows her to let go of everything going on in her life and lets her feel free.

Best Memory:

Both dancers agreed that winning the National Title in Florida this year was their favorite memory of PVRDT.

Best Thing About PV:

“I love PV… The teachers are amazing and [because of them] it doesn’t even feel like school half the time. ” Pikulski said. Squiccimarri said, “I really love my friends and the teachers I’ve had over the last few years. They make me feel so welcome here.”

Favorite Routine: 

Squiccimarri and Pikulski agreed that the team performance is their favorite. The team performance encompasses many different types of dances such as pom, hip-hop, kickline, and jazz. They described the routine as not very stressful and “so fun!”

Most Difficult Part of Dancing: 

Both dancers agreed that the most difficult part of dancing is the stressful nature of the sport, especially at competitions. They explained that it can be stressful to face multiple teams at one time, rather than just one opponent like in most other sports. They also explained that the commitment can be difficult to manage, as the team works all year long with few breaks.

Who on PVRDT is the funniest?

Aimee Gershberg and Brianna Harnett

Who on PVRDT is the Most Determined to Win?

Everyone is intense, but especially Sarah Viceconte.