The Brownwood High School Lionettes have been performing before maximum-capacity crowds all football season. Their presence and support at football games is a long-standing tradition, but few may realize what it takes to pull off the weekly show.
Like other fall athletes and performers, the Lionettes began working out in August.
The girls practiced each day during the last class period, beginning at 2:50 pm and continuing until at least 5:00 or 5:30 pm. Friday mornings began at 7:20 am to practice with the band for the field routine. On home game days, the band and dancers would often go to Gordon Wood Stadium for additional practice and field placements.
According to Lionette sponsor, Sheila Senkirik, “We prefer to dance with the band, because we think it
looks really awesome to have one big production; however, on a few occasions, we had to use a CD.”
The girls often learned two routines per week, one for the pep rally and one for the half time performance. This year, the Lionettes had six field routines and ten pep rally routines. The four officers choreographed and taught the routines.
To encourage the spirit of teamwork sponsors Stacee Hetzel and Mrs. Senkirik lead bonding activities to help the group work together. “They are an awesome group of girls!” says Mrs. Senkirik.
Mrs. Hetzel has been working with the Lionettes for four years. The first year she was the director there were 13 young ladies; the second year there were 18; the third year there were 23. “This year, we have 31 members. I love how this group has grown and prospered. They are incredible, hard working young ladies and I am honored to work with them,” she said.
Even though football season is over, the Lionettes’ season is not over. In January, the girls will be preparing for competition and the Spring Show. In addition to dancing, the Lionettes also volunteer with Toys for Kids and Relay for Life. Outside of being a Lionette, many of the ladies are involved in additional activities, such as theater, FFA, choir, and more.
Caption: The Brownwood High School Lionettes pose for the camera prior to performing their “Candy Cane” routine at the State Quarter-finals game in Dallas.
