Photo of the Year – December 30
Between Christmas and New Year’s we are showcasing the year’s favorite photos from our contributors.
When James came up with the idea of each of us selecting our “Photo of the Year,” it seemed like a daunting task. So many dance teams. So many wonderful and talented people and exciting events. I didn’t know how I would choose just one. But then events conspired to make the choice for me. A couple of weeks ago, I learned that the ChivaGirls, a group of truly awesome young ladies, had been axed. Chivas USA has undergone a change in management, resulting in big time restructuring. No part of the organization has been spared, from the front office, to the coaches, to the support staff, and sadly, the ChivaGirls, a team that has been particularly close to my heart. I have been with them through auditions, mini camp, rehearsals, performances, celebrations, and so many ups and downs. So there was no question that the ChivaGirls would be my photo of the year.
The photo above shows veteran ChivaGirl Whitney with a young fan. I chose this particular image because Whitney, who is also a alum of the Clippers Spirit, could be the poster child for pro sports dancers everywhere. Smart, fun, kind, warm, generous, approachable, strong, a badass dancer, an energetic performer, and a good friend, she epitomizes everything there is to like about all of the young women in this industry. So while this is a photo of Whitney in particular, but it also represents her teammates and so many of you out there who embody the same characteristics. Raise your glasses, ladies. It’s been a hell of year!