Last year’s rising phenomenon of the Saskatchewan Rush professional lacrosse team based out of Saskatoon was no secret.
Many Unity fans made the trek to the city to watch one or more games during their season and celebrated their success in retaining the NLL championship title.
Fans were also entertained by the dance/cheer team that opened each game, as well as performing numbers during half time. Known as the Saskatchewan Crush dance team, the all-female cast showed off their dance skills and athleticism. Little did anyone know only one year into the franchise that a former Unity dancer would now be part of this crew.
Shelby Martin attended auditions Aug.16. After the first round was complete, Martin was told she was successful in making the second round Aug. 23, after which she learned she had earned a spot.
Martin is now preparing for the upcoming season.
“I will prepare by attending weekly technique classes at Eclipse Dance Studio along with additional CRUSH rehearsals,” Martin says.
“Also, I will need to ensure my teaching commitments don’t conflict with Saskatchewan RUSH games once the season begins; as I currently run the dance studio in Conquest.”
Martin is a university student so “of course school comes first.”
When asked how she felt about being part of the CRUSH dance team, affiliated with a pro sports franchise, Martin says, “It is a good confirmation that all of those ballet and tap exams taken in high school had not been for nothing!”
Crush dance team members also attend regular promotions for the team when they can fit them into their own off-season scheduling. This commitment has included different events around the city and parades. Once the season starts, they will also be required to attend various promotional events in addition to their game commitments.
Martin says she is a Rush fan.
“I had seen Rush games prior to my auditions and the atmosphere was my favourite as absolutely everyone from every age is there cheering on our Saskatchewan Rush team.”
And she doesn’t have any reservations about performing in front of the enthusiastic crowds that attend the games.
“Performing in front of crowds that will include family and friends is nothing new as I have been doing this since I was three ... Performing in front of those big of crowds can be a little intimidating but I know I can do it because I was part of We Day 2016 with the Abiding Lines Dance Company.”
The Crush dance team coach is looking for technical ability and Martin is confident she has that.
“I have my dance teachers, Miss Lynsey, Miss Daylan and Miss Amy, to thank for that.”
Fans travelling to Saskatchewan Rush games this season will be able to say, “There’s a hometown girl on the Saskatchewan Crush dance team!”
You can follow the latest news on the Saskatchewan Rush and the Saskatchewan Crush dance team on the website www.saskatchewanrush.com. Saskatchewan Crush dance team can also be followed on Facebook and Instagram.
Shelby Martin has earned a spot on the Saskatchewan Crush dance team that performs at Saskatchewan Rush games and at promotional events. Photo submitted by Sherri Solomko
