Masuk Free Press

On Wednesday, November 27th, the Masuk Dance Team honored their graduating seniors at the Thanksgiving football game against Newtown. This annual ceremony recognizes the dedication and hard work of the seniors on the team throughout their high school years. 

“It is a really sentimental night as it is our last home football game,” said senior Olivia Cottrell. “It is really a special night for not only the seniors but the whole team.”

The ceremony, held just before the game, celebrated the dedication and hard work of this year’s senior dancers: captain Alexa Cross, and team members Portia Lisanti, Olivia Cottrell and Alana Leandres. Each senior was accompanied by their family as they proudly walked out to the center field. 

“It’s a night to honor and recognize all of our hard work and dedication throughout the years we’ve been on the team,” said Cottrell. “It’s a really special night for us four. We’ve all spent so much time together, and it’s bittersweet knowing this chapter is coming to an end.”

Cottrell, along with Lisanti and Leandres, has been a part of the team since their sophomore year. Cross, one of the team captains, joined the group in her freshman year, and over the years, the four seniors formed a tight-knit bond with their teammates and coaches.

“I have been on the team for three years and we have all built a close bond with one another,” said senior Portia Lisanti. “I am really going to miss all of these girls and this team.”

To commemorate the seniors, the underclassmen decorated the field with posters, streamers, and balloons in Masuk’s colors. Each senior also had two posters, one with their official team photo and another made by their teammates with photos of them through the years on the team. The seniors were also presented with flowers, tiaras, and a senior sash, which they wore during the school day and the game.

“I am really proud of these girls and all the hard work they have put in,” said coach Lisa Pantaleo. “It is a bittersweet night, but it was a lot of fun.”

In addition to honoring the seniors, the team performed at halftime, debuting a new routine to the song “Don’t Stop the Music” by Rihanna.

“The thing I am going to miss the most about the team is getting ready on Fridays before the football games,” said Lisanti. 

Though their time on the team may be coming to a close, the bond between these senior dancers will remain a lasting part of their high school experience.

“I am excited to see what the future has to hold for these girls,” said Pantaleo. 

It was a memorable night for the four seniors and the rest of the team. Although the football season has come to an end, the dance team is not over yet, as they are looking forward to their competition season this spring.