Youth dance clinic sparks new passion for local team

By Leo Najarro '26
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When fewer students showed interest in the Wethersfield High School dance team, Riley Carreiro, a junior and student leader, didn't just wait until the next tryouts. She took initiative and started reaching out to younger students to get them excited about joining.

Carreiro and her teammates revitalized interest in dancing with an energetic clinic held last week. The event demonstrated how student guidance can help maintain the longevity of school programs.

“I felt that it was important to close the gap between our team and the youth because we were getting less and less interest,” Carreiro explained. “This was because most dancers were not always aware of our team or the type of dancing we do. The clinic allowed outside members to get more info on our team and how we do things.”

Carreiro hoped to ensure the team's future and develop new talent by establishing a space where younger students could engage directly with the high school team.

“At first I was nervous because I thought I overestimated what I could do," Carreiro said. "But with the support from my team and coaches, everything went just as planned."

Beyond learning a new routine, the young participants found a community on the dance floor.
"She planned, organized, and created our youth nights; she even managed the Google forms and Instagram announcements," said coach McNeal.

When asked about how Carreiro influenced the Wethersfield dance program, McNeal spoke about more than just her skills as a performer.

"She represents the dance team positively, both on the floor and outside of dance team," McNeal said. "So she's a wonderful person."
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Carreiro has done more than just teach a few dance steps; she has built a foundation for the team's future. As these younger dancers look up to her, it’s clear that the Wethersfield High School dance team is no longer just surviving. Thanks to Carreiro’s leadership, it is thriving.