Jessica Graham is proving dancing doesn't end after high school.

For the past two years, the 20-year-old I.E. Weldon Secondary School graduate has been keeping her years of dance training fresh through the University of Guelph's Dance Pak program.

Having spent more than three-quarters of her life either in a dance studio or gymnastics centre - Jessica is a former Marnie's Dance N Kids student and Lindsay Gymnastics Centre member - hooking up with Dance Pak was idyllic.

Recently, Jessica learned she had been selected to co-captain the team when she returns to university in the fall.

It was especially satisfying as it's the Dance Pak members themselves who nominate and elect their captain.

"It was such an honour," said Jessica, noting she's already garnered a great deal of satisfaction working with the group. "The team is very dedicated. Everyone wants to be there and it's a total group effort. It's a tight knit group."

Dance Pak is a team of 22 young women who perform at football and basketball games, providing half-time entertainment. The team hosts events such as school formals and competes at the University Challenge - the team earned a gold medal in 2007 and a silver this year - which involves teams from all over Ontario and puts on a recital at the end of the year for parents, fellow students and friends. The team also enjoys opportunities to perform at community events and fundraisers.
"It gives dancers like me a chance to continue to dance and keep in shape," said Jessica. "It's also a nice way to connect with other students, especially for those who are away from home."

In some instances, Dance Pak can also lead to employment in the entertainment industry. Talent scouts from resorts and cruise lines often attend the University Challenge. Jessica, in fact, was approached this year to join the entertainment team on an international cruise line. The offer took her "totally by surprise". She had to decline - for now - as she had other commitments. She is currently volunteering at her alma mater and will spend the summer teaching the Enhance Your Dance Camp at the Lindsay Gymnastics Centre. Jessica will also work with and create choreography for the Cheer Explosion team.

Jessica looks forward to the opportunity to co-captain Dance Pak in the fall.

"Previous captains and my co-captain are my inspiration and I hope to make them, and the team, proud," stated Jessica.

As co-captain, Jessica's responsibilities include liaising between the team and the school's athletic administration, organizing fundraising events, choreographing team routines - including the competition - planning events and putting together the year-end recital.

Jessica also looks forward to maintaining the high standard of dance that the team has established over the years, keeping performance and technique levels high and bringing forward new fundraising ideas. She's excited about the opportunity to experiment with new choreography such as incorporating more of her gymnastics background.

Being involved with the team has already given her many great memories. She hopes her leadership role will help her build her confidence as an instructor.