By Ken Hansard
Recently VYPE had the opportunity to interview Seneca High School student Jessilynn Wheeler, captain of the Indianettes Dance Team.
VYPE: What does practice look like for you?
Wheeler: Practices are like another home where I can have fun, let out my energy, help others when needed, and be a friend and good role model to all the dance members.
VYPE: What are some things you are looking forward to this year?
Wheeler: I am looking forward to supporting our boys on the field and seeing how much the Dance Team progresses from when I first started as an Indianette.
VYPE: What do you see as your role with the Indianettes?
Wheeler: My role as captain is to support, encourage, and push myself and my teammates to be the best that our ability allows.
VYPE: Do you have some goals you are focusing on this season?
Wheeler: My goal for this year is to keep the team moving forward in a positive direction and setting groundwork for a successful future
VYPE: Are there any specific events that you are particularly looking forward to?
Wheeler: I am looking forward to Gold Night, Homecoming, and Senior Night. Gold Night, because we are bringing awareness to childhood cancer, a cause that is very near and dear to my heart; Homecoming, because I enjoy prepping for and being a part of something that is so tradition driven; and Senior Night, because I get to celebrate my accomplishments throughout high school.
VYPE: Are there any specific challenges you have encountered?
Wheeler: I have had to continuously strive to maintain a positive outlook so I can properly support for our dance team.
VYPE: What are some accolades from your past that you are most proud of?
Wheeler: I have lettered the last two years in dance, which is a major accomplishment for me, but being named a Captain this year means the most. I feel that my hard work and positive leadership has been noticed and is being rewarded,
VYPE: How did you get started in dance?
Wheeler: I started in dance 10 years ago, participating in recreational dance at Anderson Dance, where I found my true passion and love for dance. I then moved into competitive dance and continued to build my passion for music and dance – this is where I was able to experience and deal with every emotion life handed me. I took a year off and found that I missed dance; I missed what it did for me as a person, so I tried out for Seneca Varsity Dance, and I was able to get back to where I knew I belonged.
VYPE: What else do you participate in?
Wheeler: I am in FCCLA and Advanced Art, which is also a huge part of who I am as a person
VYPE: What are your plans for the future?
Wheeler: When I graduate, I will be attending Cosmetology School and getting a business degree so that I can open my own salon.
