Laker Girl Profile: Leah
Leah points to lip balm as her beauty secret
This is the ninth post of a weekly LA Times series that helps you get to know the Laker Girls
Mark Medina
LA Times Lakers Blog
February 12, 2011
Laker Girl name: Leah
Year on Squad: 1st
Hometown: Spencer, MA
Area of Residence: Los Angeles, CA
College/High School: Graduate of UMASS Dartmouth, Marketing Major
What prompted you to want to become a Laker Girl? I love to dance and wanted a way to further my dance career. I graduated college last May and was looking for a change. Los Angeles seemed to be the perfect place for me – seeing that the Lakers just won the championship, I wanted to be a part of it! Not to mention, it does have the most prestigious dance team in the NBA.
What do you think stood out to the judging panel, about you, regarding your audition? I was actually hoping I didn’t stick out! (once I made the cuts & got to the later rounds) I know it is important to dance as a team, so I tried to watch the veteran Laker Girls that were there auditioning too, so I could to try to emulate their style of dancing…..which would help blend in as best as I could.
What do you think makes a good Laker Girl? I feel a good Laker Girl represents their team and organization on and off the court. She must be a hard working dancer and caring person out in the community. Also, she should understand that a lot of dedication/hard work is involved in this position – and it is totally worth it! I mean, we’re talking about the Los Angeles Lakers here!
What is your dance experience? I started dance class at the age of 3. I have trained in ballet, tap, jazz, modern, pointe and hip-hop.
In addition, I was an NFL cheerleader for the New England Patriots from 2007-2010. My experience involved in performing at all of their home games, as well as all over the world, entertaining the troops and football fans.
Favorite dance routine, while being a Laker Girl? My favorite routine is called “Higher Ground” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. It is a fast upbeat song, so I get excited to perform it every time!
Favorite uniform? I love one of our more recent uniforms we have now……we call it our “Purple Ruffle” uniform. It has a cute ruffle skirt. I just love how it looks when we dance, it’s very feminine and girly!
Favorite Lakers Player? Derek Fisher
Favorite Laker Girl memory so far? I cannot pinpoint one memory in particular. I feel so lucky to be in this position, that I have way too many to choose from! To be honest, just to be a part of this journey is incredible and I am looking forward to making many more memories the rest of this season!
What do you like most about being involved, as a Laker Girl, at local charity/community events? I really enjoy meeting the fans……they always have great stories! It is so nice to be able to give back to our community and put smiles on their faces. We often get asked the question, “Are you the REAL Laker Girls?”……and I always get so excited to say, “YES!” I am excited to answer back because it’s an honor to be given the opportunity to brighten the day of someone who really appreciates our time.
What would you say is your beauty secret? I’m obsessed with Chap Stick (lip balm). It is my number one beauty necessity!
What diet/workout tips do you have?Always eat breakfast! If you don’t, you will over eat later…..I promise!
What are your Hobbies? I really like extreme sports. I’m beginning to venture out – and trying as many as I can! A few I have conquered recently include wakeboarding, motocross and snowboarding! I would love to go skydiving. (that’s next on my list!)
Career aspirations? I would love to get involved in some type of broadcasting. My dream job would be to be on a talk show, as a host! A news personality.
