Etta, Line Captain For The Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders

UC: Etta, welcome to Ultimate Cheerleaders. Tell our readers about yourself, especially what a Florida dancer you are!

Hola! Etta here! I’m originally from Winter Park Florida, but I moved to West Palm Beach for college in 2007 and have been in South Florida ever since! I got my bachelors degree in dance performance from Palm Beach Atlantic University and have been a full-time dance teacher at Mizfit, Inc for the last seven years. Other than dancing, I’m most passionate about my family and my faith. I’m also a crazy cat lady and rescued a kitten about two years ago. I named him Finn, after the only undefeated team in the NFL of course. FINS UP!

UC: Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders are well known for their charity and community initiatives, do you have a favorite involvement?

Candidly, I can’t say that one charity event or community initiative is my favorite. Each time I’ve been involved in an appearance of this nature, I’m swept away by the gratitude of the recipients and how much my time with them humbles me. Last September, we volunteered at a Red Cross shelter for an Irma relief project in Miami and I was completely blown away at how positive and gracious the occupants were. As we handed out supplies and meals to them, their hope brought me so much joy and faith in humanity. It’s moments like this that remind me that our community and loving one another are truly one of the most important aspects of being a cheerleader. During a more recent appearance at Park Summit Veterans Club, I was privileged to hear the stories of former United States military men talk about their experiences. I was in tears learning about their fearless commitment to defend our country, even as they nearly starved to death as prisoners of war. Not only does my job make me proud to work for the Dolphins, but has made me even prouder to be an American.

UC: Can you express the emotions experienced in performing as a Dolphins Cheerleader at Hard Rock Stadium?

Over the last four years as a Dolphins cheerleader, the emotions I experience when I perform in the stadium have grown exponentially. I’ve had butterflies in my stomach before every game and loved every minute of cheering on the field. However, as a rookie I felt more of a personal sense of accomplishment. As a 4th year veteran and captain on the squad, my emotions are much deeper. I have a greater sense of pride for my team and feel honored to cheer in each game. As soon as I’m on that field, I feel like I’m truly at home and there is nowhere else I’d rather be dancing.

UC: The Dolphins are well known for traveling internationally to visit USA troops, what did you learn on your multiple trips.

I’ve learned that what makes our country so great is not our accomplishments, but how we rise up from tragedies. Being able to personally say thank you to the men and women who are the very heart of us rising up is the very least we can do. To be able to bring a small piece of home to the service men and women who bear the sacrifices day after day is truly an honor.

UC: Can you reveal any secrets about this year’s Annual?

I’m SO excited about my team’s participation in the Annual! Even though I haven’t seen any behind the scenes results yet, the direction we are going had such a positive and aspirational vibe. I can’t wait to show all of you what we’ve been working on. This year, we are really showcasing the unique personalities of the individual cheerleaders and it’s not just about getting one perfect bikini shot. While we are passionate about fitness and living healthy lifestyles, there are a lot more attributes that make us who we are. I think you’ll get to see that a lot more in this year’s Annual.

UC: One thing DolFans would be surprised to learn about is….?

I think Dolfans would be surprised to learn about how diverse and talented all my teammates truly are! Aside from representing so many different counties, the girls on my squad are so talented. I keep learning new things about them that inspire and motivate me every day. It’s really a privilege to dance beside them every night and every game.

UC: Thank you Etta, looking forward to covering you in September.