Monday, June 30, 2008

Update from the Rockstarz

Hello Friends!

We just finished a kid's cheer/dance camp in Mesquite Nevada in conjunction with the Rare Breed Sport & Leadership Foundation and WOW, what a life changing experience. Rick (Denver Broncos Rock Star 80) and Donna Upchurch first and foremost are amazing! It is very inspiring to see pro athletes and their dedication to today's youth. As Rocktarz, one of our major missions is to foster confidence, fitness and enthusiasm in young women. We could not have been in a better environment to do so!



Throughout the week we not only held a dance/cheer camp for ladies ages 3-17, but helped with the celebrity golf tournament, visited the local hospital, and even went to the grand opening celebration of a local, family owned, sporting goods store to show our support in the community. With the hustle and bustle of our daily lives it can be easy to forget the impact we can have on those around us. I feel so fortunate to take part in a foundation that takes the time to make a difference. Overall I could go on for days about our trip to Mesquite but to sum it up we had a great camp and great week with AMAZING people. Thanks again to Rick, Donna and the Mesquite Rotary Club for having us. You are Rockstarz!



The Rockstarz also participated in a leadership conference for high school pom and cheer teams Saturday, June 14. We taught various workshops to further professionalism, instill confidence and encourage community evolvement. Again, we are fortunate to have such wonderful opportunities to make a difference amongst the young women of today. Theses are the ladies that inspire us to be better role models. It was a wonderful day!

More to come from the Rockstarz!

Cheers,
Heidi

CFC Dance Team Splits

The former Colorado Cobras Venom Dancers have recently split into the Colorado Cobras Dancers and the Venom Dancers. The CCD will continue to represent the Colorado Cobras Minor League Football Team. The Venom will now be filling in as the Lady Wolves for the remainder of the Northern Colorado Wolfpack Minor League Football season. Updated websites can be found in the team links.

DBC named Miss Colorado 2008

A Crowning Achievement
By Jake Grilley
DenverBroncos.com
June 26, 2008

ENGLEWOOD, Colo.-- As a Denver Broncos Cheerleader, Jamie Dukehart-Conti knows the importance of accessories. What would the Broncos Cheerleaders be without pom poms and cowboy boots? Last weekend Dukehart-Conti earned two other accessories, a sash and a crown.

She is Miss Colorado 2008, and the newly-crowned pageant winner is still trying to grasp the actuality of achieving her dream.



"It was so exciting," Dukehart-Conti said of being named this year's Miss Colorado. "It was the same when my name was called at Broncos additions for the first time. When you hear your name called it is kind of overwhelming. It takes a few days for it to sink in."

This was Dukehart-Conti's third year competing at Miss Colorado. She placed fourth overall each of the previous two years.

Instead of letting her finishes get her down, Dukehart-Conti saw not being named Miss Colorado as another opportunity and more time to become involved and prepare.

She used her title as Miss Denver and later as Miss Broomfield to invest her time and efforts to the community. Dukehart-Conti was heavily involved in promoting and organizing the Red Ribbon Week campaign, a program geared towards promoting a drug-free lifestyle to elementary and middle school students.

Over the past year both as a Broncos Cheerleader and Miss Denver, Dukehart-Conti volunteered over 1700 hours of community service.

"It was a really great opportunity and experience," she said. "It really demonstrates that you are invested in the organization and the community."

Dukehart-Conti is quick to dispel notions that Miss Colorado is strictly a beauty pageant.

"The swimsuit component and beauty factor are parts of the competition but that is just one component of the competition," she said. "I spent a lot more time on my community service than I did on my swimsuit walk. It is just part of of it. It is a total package and there are so many things that we do."

Part of her responsibly as pageant contestant and now as Miss Colorado is serving as a role model to young girls.

"I love children and I love being able to interact with them," she said.

Children are an integral part of Dukehart-Conti's life. When she isn't spending her time as a nanny, the Colorado State graduate with a certificate in elementary education helps to instruct kids through the Denver Broncos Junior Cheerleaders and the Miss Colorado Princess Mentoring Program.



As Miss Colorado Dukehart-Conti plans on continuing her efforts in promoting drug free awareness. In addition she will focus on advocating the organization's platform the Children's Miracle Network, an organization established to help fund improvements to medical facilities and healthcare for children, and her own personal platform of Investing in Miracles Changing Lives with Change, focused on gathing small donations in an effort to help enrich children's lives.

The exposure of being a Broncos Cheerleader in addition to being Miss Colorado brings with it opportunities that Dukehart-Conti is excited to embrace.

"I am so excited about what the partnership will be able to bring," she said. "I am so lucky to have so many great partnerships established between both organizations. Both organizations will open doors for each other."

Dukehart-Conti said she couldn't ask for a more supportive group of women than her fellow cheerleaders.

"Everyone has been so supportive and excited for me," she said. "They know that I have been involved and working for this for the entire year and it wasn't something I just did on a whim. They understand what having the title entails."

Dukehart-Conti will be representing both the Broncos and Colorado at the national level when she participates in the Miss America reality television series which will begin taping in September and October and during the Miss America Pageant in January.

And although her life now has added responsibilities and obligations to fulfill as Miss Colorado, Dukehart-Conti isn't forgoing her responsibilities as a Broncos Cheerleader.

"I am committed to the team 110 percent," she said. "I'll be out there on the sidelines."

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Video from the Colorado Cobras Venom Dancers



Here is the 1st dance video from The Colorado Venom Dancers practice.



1st Performance

2008-09 Nuggets Dancers Audition Information



Audition Requirements

Participants must:

* be at least 18 years of age or have a parent or guardian present to sign a waiver on the participant's behalf
* wear a cropped top, briefs and shoes with non-marking soles
* submit non-returnable headshot (at least 5x7; does not need to be professional but must be clear and contain only the audition participant)
* submit a dance resume including any previous dance teams, classes or workshops, current employment and training, educational background, and 2-3 references
* live in the Denver area and have reliable transportation to and from all Nuggets home games and practices

Audition Schedule

Preliminary Auditions - Saturday, August 2
Registration: 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.
First Cuts: 12:15 p.m.
Second Cuts: 3:00 p.m.

Dance Boot Camp - Sunday, August 3
Registration: 9:30 - 10:00 a.m.
Semi-Finalists Announced: 2:00 p.m.

Individual Interviews - Monday and Tuesday, August 4 & 5
Semi-Finalist Interviews: 4:30 - 9:00 p.m.

Choreography Showcase / Final Dance Audition - Saturday, August 9
Registration: 9:30 - 10:00 a.m.
Finalists Announced: 2:00 p.m.

Finalist Training Camp
Sunday, August 10: 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, August 12: 7:30 - 10:00 p.m.
Thursday, August 14: 7:30 - 10:30 p.m.

* Audition schedule subject to change.

Preliminary Auditions:
The preliminary round of auditions will be held at the Gold Crown Field House in Lakewood. All participants are required to wear a half top and briefs and bring their headshot and resume to the preliminary. The preliminary round will consist of two sets of choreography, one jazz piece and one hip hop piece. Dancers will learn the first routine and audition in small groups in front of a panel of judges before the first cuts are made. Dancers will then learn a second routine and audition in smaller groups in front of the judges. Dancers who make it through to the second round of cuts will be asked to return the next day for the Dance Boot Camp.

Dance Boot Camp:
Dancers will participate in a dance technique class at the Gold Crown Field House on the second day of auditions. The Dance Boot Camp will last approximately 3 hours. Dancers should be prepared for strenuous activity this day. Semi-Finalists are scheduled to be announced at 2:00 p.m. In case the semi-finalist list is announced earlier than 2:00 p.m., dancers are asked not to leave the premises.

Individual Interviews:
Semi-Finalists will be asked to attend an individual interview with a panel of judges on either Monday, August 4 or Tuesday August 5. These 10-minute interviews will be held at Paramount Theatre in downtown Denver. Dancers are responsible for their own parking and should arrive 10 minutes prior to their interview time for check-in.

Choreography Showcase & Final Dance Audition:
On Saturday, August 9 semi-finalists will each present their own 45-60 second piece of choreography in front of each other and a panel of judges. The music and style of choreography is left to the dancer’s discretion. Any costumes or props used in the choreography must have non-marking pads to protect the floor. The final dance audition will consist of each dancer performing the material learned on the first day of auditions. The dancers who will be asked to attend training camp will be announced at 2:00 p.m. Again, dancers are asked to stay on the premises in case the announcement can be made earlier than 2:00 p.m.

Finalists’ Training Camp:
Details of the finalists’ training camp will be made available after the finalists are announced on Saturday, August 9. All dates of the training camp are mandatory. The final team will be announced at the end of training camp.

Attire

* Prep Classes: Attire left to dancer's discretion. Must wear non-marking soles.
* Prelims: Cropped dance top / sports bra and briefs. You will not be allowed to audition in jeans or dance pants. Dance sneakers or jazz shoes are recommended, but not required.
* Dance Boot Camp: Same as prelims.
* Semi-Finalists Interviews: Professional business attire.
* Semi-Finalists Choreography Showcase: Any dance wear or costume appropriate for the choreography presented.
* Finals: Black dance shorts and Nuggets Tee (supplied by the Denver Nuggets)

Audition Locations:

Gold Crown Field House
150 South Harlan Street
Lakewood, CO 80226
(303) 233-6776

Paramount Theatre
1621 Glenarm Place
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 623-0106

2008-09 Nuggets Cheer Team Audition Information

Thanks for your interest in the Denver Nuggets Cheerleaders! The tryout date for the 2008-09 season is set to be held at Colorado Athletic Club at DTC on Saturday, August 2, 2008. Listed below is information on how tryouts will be conducted. Please feel free to e-mail us directly if you have questions. Thanks again for your time and support. We look forward to seeing you at tryouts!



The Denver Nuggets Cheerleading team performs at every home game during the season, as well as other special engagements. The co-ed cheerleading team does various performances, including stunts, gymnastics, and acrobatic skills to encourage crowd involvement. This is a paid position and performers receive additional money for some local appearances.

Date: Saturday, August 2, 2008.

Time: Registration begins at 9:00 AM and closes at 9:30 AM.

Location: Colorado Athletic Club at DTC, 5555 DTC Parkway, Greenwood Village, CO 80111

Cheerleader Audition Information:

* Audition Format: During the First Round participants will show the minimum requirements in front of a panel of judges. After the minimum requirements have been shown, an opportunity will be provided for participants to show additional skills. Tumblers will be provided the opportunity to throw two passes which should showcase more advanced tumbling. Partner Stunters will be asked to do a three-consecutive stunt sequence. Dismounts will be judged at this time. Each participant is judged separately. Finalists will be announced at the end of tryouts.

* Requirements: All participants, male or female, must be at least 18 years of age as of August 2, 2008. There are no other age limitations other than this. All participants must provide a clear headshot and résumé. Headshots do not need to be professional, but should be a clear picture of you and only you. The résumé should list team/performance experience you may have, and any other information you would like the judges to know. Headshots will not be returned to you.

* Audition Attire:
Ladies – The audition attire is a sports bra of some sort, as well as briefs and shorts. NO LONG PANTS ALLOWED. Participants must wear white-soled tennis shoes, and it is recommended to be performance ready with full hair and make up. The official tanning salon of the Denver Nuggets Cheerleaders is The Palms Tanning Resort.

Gentlemen – The audition attire is a short sleeved T-shirt, shorts and white-soled tennis shoes. NO TANK TOPS OR CUT OFF SHIRTS ALLOWED.

* Talent Categories: The Denver Nuggets Cheerleaders look for a variety of talents. This includes Gymnasts/Tumblers, Acrobats, Cheerleaders and Partner Stunters. We recognize that each individual may not be an expert in all areas. However, participants must excel in at least one of the above-mentioned categories to be considered for the team. Participants can try out for more than one category to show versatility and ability. Each talent category will have certain requirements to be performed in front of a panel of judges, which include the following:

Gymnasts/Tumblers:

Minimum Requirements:
* Round off back hand spring back tuck
* Standing back tuck

Cheerleaders/Partner Stunters/Acrobats:

Minimum Requirements:
* Co-Ed Toss Extension
* Toss Hands Liberty



ALL categories of talent will have the opportunity and will be expected to show more than the minimum requirements. Creativity and difficulty are appreciated. An interview and overall assessment will conclude the try out process.

* Time Commitment: On average there are 42 games in a season. Practice will be held over the summer as well as 1 to 2 times per week during the season. Call time for games is typically 5:30 P.M. The position is paid on a per game basis and there are other forms of compensation as well.

* Questions: If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Cheerleading Directors, Stephanie and Christopher “Hemo” John at DenverNuggetsCheer@yahoo.com or NuggetsCheerleaders@pepsicenter.com.

Thursday, June 19, 2008

Colorado Football Conference Dance Teams First Look

The Colorado Football Conference kicked off their regular minor league football season the first weekend of June and here is a first look at their entertainment teams in action.

Colorado Cobras Venom







Denver Pirate Cheerleaders







Good luck to all of you this season, looking good!

Friday, June 6, 2008

Let's! Go! Swim!

Sports Illustrated made a big mistake when it omitted the Denver Broncos cheerleaders from its NFL Swimsuit Issue photos this year. So, to help make things right, we gathered a slew of summer's hottest swim styles and asked members of the squad to model their favorites. Eat your heart out, SI. These looks are truly something to cheer about.



Click here for video.

Click here for slideshow.

Click here for shoot bio shots.

Click here, here and here for article PDF.

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

2008 Colorado Cobras Venom Dancers



Top Row: Jenna, Mercedes

Middle Row: Ciara, Crystal, Kelli

Front Row: Janae, Asia, Sarah, Maliakah

Not Shown: Ayanna, Jessica

Monday, June 2, 2008

Denver Nuggets 2008 - 09 Cheer and Stunt Team Auditions

Auditions for the 2008-2009 Denver Nuggets Cheer and Stunt Team will be held in August (date TBD). To receive information about auditions, please fill out this online form.



Audition information will be sent out as soon as exact dates and location are confirmed. For further information, please e-mail the directors, Stephanie and Christopher John, at NuggetsCheerleaders@pepsicenter.com, or call the Nuggets Cheer Team Hotline, (303) 405-6081, with any questions or concerns.

Colorado Eagles Chicks 2008 Audition Workshop

Would you like to be a part of the #1 dance team in the CHL?

The Pioneer Press Eagles Chicks are holding a workshop to help you make the cut!

When: Saturday, August 23, 10 AM - 3 PM
Fee: $30
Where: Quest Academy of Dance

Click HERE for all the details!

Colorado Eagles Chicks Auditions

The Colorado Eagles are looking for dancers that are dynamic, well spoken and talented to represent our organization. If you have the drive and dedication that it takes, then come and tryout to be an Eagles Chick!



Date: September 7, 2008
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Budwesier Events Center

Click HERE for all the details!

Denver Nuggets Dancers Auditions: Frequently Asked Questions

What does it take to become a Nuggets Dancer?

The Denver Nuggets are interested in hiring diverse performers with a strong level of commitment to the team. The judges will be looking for:
* Dance ability
* Enthusiasm
* Figure
* Personal Appearance
* Personality
*Poise

What skill/technique level is required to be a Nuggets Dancer?

The Nuggets Dancers perform a variety of styles of dance including hip-hop, jazz, and character routines. Each of these styles will be evaluated during the audition process. Dancers should be able to perform basic dance technique including, but not limited to, double pirouettes, side leaps, and high kicks.

What can I do to prepare myself for the auditions?

Participation in prep classes is the best way to prepare for auditions. To register for prep classes or for more information, click HERE. Dancers should also get plenty of rest, exercise regularly, and follow a well-balanced meal plan.

What is the time commitment of a Nuggets Dancer?

This is not a full-time job. Dancers will need to commit approximately 20-25 hours per week.

How often do the Dancers practice?

Nuggets Dancers will practice Tuesday and Thursday nights, as well as Sunday afternoons (exact times to be determined). Due to Nuggets home game scheduling, additional practices may be scheduled on Monday or Wednesday evenings throughout the season.

What time do the Nuggets Dancers have to arrive at the arena on game days?

Arrival time for the Nuggets Dancers is 3.5 hours prior to game time. For example, dancers need to be at Pepsi Center at 3:30 p.m. for a 7:00 p.m. game.

Are there height and weight requirements?

No, height and weight must only be proportionate.

Should I cover my tattoos / piercings?

Yes. Having tattoos or piercings will not hurt your chances of becoming a Nuggets Dancer, but they can be distracting to the judges. We strongly suggest you cover any visible tattoos with make up and remove any body piercings.

Can my family and friends watch auditions?

No, auditions are closed to the public.

What do I need to bring to auditions?

The audition process is strenuous! Bring plenty of water and snacks to help you through each day. Dancers will not be allowed to leave the premises for food once the auditions begin. Other items to have on hand at auditions:
* Knee-pads
* Additional pairs of pantyhose
* Alternative shoes to dance in
* Warm-ups (to stay warm between auditions)
* I-pod, book, or other form of entertainment to use while judges deliberate

Will I need to choreograph my own routine?

Yes, each semi-finalist will be asked to prepare a 45-60 second piece of choreography. Music, style of dance, props, and costumes are left to the discretion of each semi-finalist.

How many dancers will be chosen for the 2008-09 dance team?

We are looking to hire between 14 and 24 dancers to attend the Nuggets Dancers Training Camp. The final team will consist of 14-18 dancers.

Do current team members have to re-audition?

Yes, regardless of previous employment, all dancers must re-audition each season.

What can I do to stand out from the rest of the dancers auditioning?

Attire is crucial. Plan ahead and be creative in selecting your audition attire.
Be enthusiaitic throughout the process. We’re looking for dancers with positive attitudes and a good work ethic.

Let us get to know you! Although you will not be judged on your performance at prep classes, you will be noticed if we see you at multiple classes.

Can I attend prep classes and auditions if I’m not 18?

Yes. Dancers must be at least 16 years old to attend prep classes. Dancers under 18 must have a parent/ guardian present to sign waivers.

Can I request a copy of the judges score sheets after auditions?

No. Score sheets are not available for candidates to review.

If you have further questions or concerns, please contact Nuggets Dancers Director, Amy Jo Wagner at AJWagner@PepsiCenter.com.

Denver Nuggets Dancers Pre-Audition Workshop

Prep Classes



General Info

Audition prep classes are designed to introduce dancers to the style of choreography performed by Nuggets Dancers. Classes are open to all dancers over 16 years of age. (Please note: Dancers under 18 years of age will need to have a parent or guardian present to sign a waiver on their behalf.)

A new routine, previously performed by the 2007-08 Nuggets Dancers, will be taught at each prep class. Prep class participants will have the opportunity to speak with former Nuggets Dancers and have a Q&A session with Nuggets Dancers Director/Choreographer, Amy Jo Wagner. Q&A topics will vary from class to class and will include: tips on audition, interview, and photo shoot attire, professional make-up application and hair styling, resume writing, and interview preparation will also be given at each class.

The cost of each prep class is $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Payments must be received 24 hours prior to the start of the prep class. Pre-registration is highly recommended for each class…they fill up quickly!

Prep Class Info

Thursday, June 19 (7:30-9pm) - Pepsi Center Practice Court
Tuesday, June 24 (7:30-9pm) - Pepsi Center Practice Court
Monday, June 30 (7:30-9pm) - Pepsi Center Practice Court
Wednesday, July 2 (7:30-9pm) - Pepsi Center Practice Court
Tuesday, July 15 (6:30 – 8pm) – Centerstage Starz Theatre and Dance Studio
Thursday, July 17 (6:30 – 8pm) – Centerstage Starz Theatre and Dance Studio
Tuesday, July 22 (6:30 – 8pm) – Centerstage Starz Theatre and Dance Studio
Thursday, July 24 (6:30 – 8pm) – Centerstage Starz Theatre and Dance Studio
* Enrollment in prep classes does not guarantee a position with the Nuggets Dancers.

Prep Class Registration

To register, please print and complete the prep class registration form. Dancers will be allowed to register at the door, but advanced registration is appreciated. Mail completed form along with $15 (cash or check*) for each prep class to:

Denver Nuggets Dancers
Attn: Amy Jo Wagner
Prep Class Registration
1000 Chopper Circle
Denver, CO 80204

*make check out to Denver Nuggets Dancers

Denver Nuggets Dancers Audition Details



Audition Requirements

Participants must:

* be at least 18 years of age or have a parent or guardian present to sign a waiver on the participant's behalf
* wear a cropped top, briefs and shoes with non-marking soles
* submit non-returnable headshot (at least 5x7; does not need to be professional but must be clear and contain only the audition participant)
* submit a dance resume including any previous dance teams, classes or workshops, current employment and training, educational background, and 2-3 references
* live in the Denver area and have reliable transportation to and from all Nuggets home games and practices

Audition Schedule

The audition will consist of a preliminary round and a dancer “boot camp” in the first weekend, individual interviews and photo shoots in the week following the prelims, and a choreography round (for semi-finalists) with a final dance audition the second weekend. More details will soon be available.

Attire

Prep Classes: Attire left to dancer's discretion. Must wear non-marking soles.
Prelims: Cropped dance top / sports bra and briefs. You will not be allowed to audition in jeans or dance pants. Dance sneakers or jazz shoes are recommended, but not required.
Semi-Finalists Interviews: Professional business attire.
Semi-Finalists Photo Shoot: Attire left to dancer’s discretion. Dancer’s may choose to wear business attire, social / night wear, dance costume, swimwear, etc.
Semi-Finalists Choreography Showcase: Any dance wear or costume appropriate for the choreography presented.
Finals: Black dance shorts and Nuggets Tee (supplied by the Denver Nuggets)

Outlaws Cheer Camp

Saturday, June 28th

Girls Ages 6-13

This camp will have many members of the Denver Outlaws dance team as instructors!

Camp Director: Brieanna Mercer– Denver Outlaws



Saturday, June 28th from 2:00 - 4:00 will be the practice for the July 4th game.

The Practice will be held at Invesco Field the routine will be taught by the Outlaws Dancers

Performance with the Outlaws Dancers during half time at the July 4th game

Please contact Brieanna Mercer at outlawsdanceteam@hotmail.com for more information

LAST MINUTE FLIGHTS TO P-R-O CONVENTION AS LOW AS $49.00 ONE WAY….WOW!!

Last minute deals on Delta Airlines make it possible to get to Atlanta for the P-R-O Convention as low as $49 per way. HURRY! This offer ends from Delta on June 3rd. What a great incentive if you haven't already booked your flight and reserved your spot for the hottest convention of the summer. Your short flight will give you a mini nap so you can get ready for all those high kicks!

Last Week Before Convention Price Goes Up

ALBANY, GA, MAY 27, 2008: It's the last week to register for the P-R-O Convention for the early bird price of only $240.00. After June 1st, the price will increase…so don't miss your chance to save money! You know you want to go; you know you can't miss it…so sign up already!

In case you need more convincing, here are the Top 10 Reasons to attend for 2008.

10. Dancing next to hundreds of beautiful girls as pretty as you isn't as hard as it seems…really.

9. Because you never know where you will need to audition if you ever decide to move. This is your chance to dance in front of the REAL Directors and Choreographers of Pro Teams across the nation.

8. Thrill your friends back home with Pro Cheerleader Knowledge!

7. All the other Hot girls are doing it…c'mon you know you want to…

6. Because your MySpace and Facebook pages deserve pictures of other dancing divas besides the one's you rehearse with each week…

5. Since your boyfriend/husband probably doesn't even like to support the team you cheer for….Excite him with news that you danced next to Pro Cheerleaders from his FAV team!

4. 3 words…Pro Cheerleader Boots!

3. It's the only time where you will hear "I like your poms!" and not be totally offended by it.

2. Share secrets with other Pro Cheerleaders that will save the world…like
a) what push up bra works best
b) what panty hose hold everything in the best
c) what lip-gloss won't stick to your hair during a game.

1. Where else can you be guaranteed to get over 300 simultaneous "hair tosses" in one room????