Senior Kaylee Mitchell has danced since she was three years old and has been a drill team member since her freshman year. As she prepares to graduate, Mitchell reflects on her time with the team and shares some of her most meaningful experiences.
For Mitchell, joining the team and eventually becoming captain was an experience grounded in teamwork and support.
“It’s been a really good environment for everyone because, like, it is a team, and we all work together,” Mitchell said. “Throughout tryouts, we all support each other, no matter how it ends up. Everyone is just always there for each other, and it feels like a family.”
As captain, Mitchell understands the importance of strong leadership, especially when managing a team with many personalities.
“I think just reaching out, even if you’re not a social person, and talking to everyone on the team is important,” Mitchell said. “You never know who your next best friend could be. Since we’re all there every morning practicing together, it’s better to know everyone so we can all work together and just be ourselves.”
While her role as captain has been rewarding, it hasn’t come without its challenges.
“One of the biggest challenges has been making sure everyone is on the same page with everything,” Mitchell said. “Since there are so many people on the team, it’s hard to make sure everyone agrees on the same thing. So I’m always sending out messages to make sure everyone knows exactly when, where, and what is happening.”
Despite the challenges, Mitchell’s favorite part of this year has been the connections she’s made with her teammates.
“My favorite moment has probably been getting to talk to every person on the team,” Mitchell said. “Everyone has a different story of where they are in their dance journey, and seeing how everyone has grown is one of the best things I’ve witnessed.”
Beyond high school, Mitchell’s journey as a dancer has been deeply influenced by her mother, who owns a dance studio and is a coach there.
“I dance at a studio that my mom owns, and one of the other owners has been helping me since I was really young,” Mitchell said. “She’s been there throughout my entire dance journey, and I’ve just grown up and kept with it because of her.”
Fast-forwarding to the future, Mitchell is excited to attend Texas Christian University, though she’s decided to step away from dance due to past injuries.
“I’m going to TCU,” Mitchell said. “But because of the surgeries I’ve gone through throughout high school, I think it’s better for me to end the season this year.”
And finally, Mitchell gives advice for future drill team members. Mitchell encourages perseverance and self-belief.
“When you’re struggling with a skill, don’t give up on yourself,” Mitchell said. “Keep pushing and working hard, because it feels so much better in the end and is so rewarding when you finally complete that skill. Then, you’re able to move on to the next level.”
Mitchell’s time on the drill team has been a journey of growth, connection, and leadership that she’ll carry with her even after high school.
