When it comes to hyping up a crowd for a basketball game, the Spartan G’s have the moves to turn a simple game into an exhibit of Spartan spirit.
Made up of athletes who have been classically trained in dance for years, the dance team brings together talent, athleticism, and a unique ability to connect with audiences to create a vibe like none other. It may seem like fun and games to the casual observer, but these athletes work incredibly hard for their team.
Stepping Up the Spirit
The dancers spend three hours in practice three days a week to prepare for their games and appearances. In addition, they are responsible for two additional workouts a week at their own time.
“All of our dancers are full-time students, and most are working a job and involved in campus activities,” says coach Megan Cunningham. “Time management is important for them to stay on top of their responsibilities.”
The Spartan G’s split the volleyball games with the cheer team, and both teams attend the women’s and men’s basketball home games. In addition, the dance team has their own appearance schedule for events on campus or in the community. The athletes seem to thrive on this rigorous schedule.
“My favorite parts of being on the dance team are the fast pace and the performance opportunities,” says Spartan G Caedmon Akers. “We learn over a dozen routines to perform at men’s and women’s basketball halftimes during the season. I love the challenge of learning so many routines and getting to perform for my peers at UNCG athletic events.”
Dancing Through Life
Many of the Spartan G’s are dance majors or hold dance minors in the College of Visual and Performing Arts, but even those who are pursuing different degrees find it difficult to imagine life without dance.
Dance major Kaylee Sauls is not only on the Spartan G’s but also teaches dance at local high schools and studios. “I have been dancing my whole life, basically. Since I was two years old!”
Michayla Lewis, fourth-year special education major, has also been dancing since she was a toddler and has spent all four years at UNCG on the dance team. “After graduation, I hope to be a teacher and have my own classroom. I plan to continue to dance, but I’m not sure what that looks like yet.”
Second-year business major Yamarie Garba appreciates the character building that dance brings to her life. “I can see my personal growth and discipline as a person as well as a dancer,” she says. “Spartan G’s requires dedication, hard work, and resilience to balance academics with intense practice schedules. Plus, the dance team is a physical and emotional release for me. It keeps me in shape and boosts my mood, while also providing a break from school.”
The authentic joy and commitment they have for their craft creates an infectious spirit that fans can’t deny. Meet a few of the G’s and find out what they love about representing Spartan nation.
Rylynn Peay
Human development and family studies major with a minor in dance
Rylynn and her twin sister Ryann are both on the Spartan G’s.
“We all come from different dance backgrounds, which allows us to come together and teach each other new things. The vibe of being on Spartan spirit is unmatched because we truly are like a family and our always looking out for each other so we can be the best versions of ourselves for UNCG.”
Megan Fisher
Dance major
Megan plans to pursue professional cheerleading on an NFL or NBA team and work in the fitness and nutrition industry.
“The dance team was one of the main reasons I chose to come to UNCG and has been my home away from home ever since. I have seen a huge improvement in my dancing since performing with the Spartan G’s.”
Caedmon Akers
Double major in dance and psychology
Caedmon is the only boy on the team and the second male to make the Spartan G’s.
“In addition to dance team and academics, I am a fitness assistant at the Kaplan Center. There are so many clubs, events, and groups on campus representing different cultures, identities, and interests. There’s always a way to be engaged as a Spartan regardless of who you are!”
Kaylee Sauls
Dance major
Kaylee wants to move to New York to pursue her commercial dance career full-time after graduation.
“I love the forever bonds I have created with my teammates. I also love being able to perform as my genuine self to the crowd and doing it for the complete fun of it.”
Yamarie Garba
Business major
Yamarie also wants to get a master’s in education so she can be a school administrator.
“I am only in my second year on the team, but I feel as though I have met some of my future bridesmaids on this team. My experience with the Spartan G’s has made my college life all the better and will leave me with memories and lasting friendships that go far beyond the team.”
Story by Becky Deakins, University Communications.
Photos by Sean Norona, University Communications. (Portraits with white backgrounds were submitted by athletes.)
