For many, dancing is a way to 'cut-loose' and forget about weekly stress, but for those on the Auburn University Dance Line, it's a lifestyle and job. Those on the dance team cheer on the Tigers from the stands whether away or at home.
Annie Davidson, junior in apparel design and merchandising, shares her triumphs while on the team.
“Being on dance line has made my experience at Auburn like no other,” Davidson said. “Getting to be a part of the Auburn University Marching Band has been such a rewarding experience. It is so amazing to be a part of something so much bigger than myself.”
While being on the field each game day is a rewarding time for these dancers, it does not come easy, Davidson said. These women practice multiple hours each day, and are constantly performing during each game.
“When the band bursts out of the tunnel for pregame, and I hear the crowd, and dance to War Eagle, I know those long hours of practice were well worth it,” Davidson said.
The dance line team has to compete each week to make it on the field for the pregame and halftime shows, Davidson said. This ensures that each dancer is working hard for their spot on the field.
“On dance line we have a pass off system where we have to try out to dance at each game,” Davidson said.
Davidson said as a dancer, being chosen to dance at the games is a memorable experience. She remembers one occurrence that shaped her time on dance line.
“The most memorable thing that has happened to me while on dance line would be performing at my first iron bowl freshman year,” Davidson said. “Getting picked as a freshman to dance at the Iron Bowl in Bryant-Denny Stadium was an experience I will never forget.”
Members of the Auburn University Marching Band spend a tremendous amount of time preparing for games, which makes their lives different from the ordinary student, Davidson said.
“Although I may not have as much free time as other students, having the opportunity to perform in front of 85,000 people each game has created memories that will last a lifetime,” Davidson said.
Davidson said cheering on the team is a great aspect of being apart of the line, but there are other elements that make it even better.
“My favorite part of dance line has to be all of the sweet little girls that come up to us each game day and ask for pictures and autographs,” Davidson said. "I hope I can be a role model to all of the little girls who dream of being on dance line, just like the girls I looked up to when I was little."
Being a part of what many consider a true Auburn tradition means something special to the women on dance line. The hard work and time-demanding schedules can be a challenge to these college students, but a worthwhile challenge, Davidson said.
"Getting to do what I love most, for the team I love most, is a dream come true and an experience I wouldn't trade for the world,” Davidson said.
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