Dealing with Feelings of Inclusion in Competitive Dance Teams

I sympathize with your sentiment, especially if you have paid to be part of the dance club with the express intention of dancing. The reality of being a reserve on a competitive dance team can indeed be demotivating, particularly when you feel overshadowed or left out during rehearsals. This article provides strategies to help you manage these feelings effectively.

Understanding Your Role: Why Reserves Aren't Always Needed

The term 'reserve' in a competitive dance team signifies that you are a backup member. This means that your participation is dependent on the team's immediate needs. While it's understandable to feel disappointed, it's important to remember that your role is vital. In some situations, you might not be called upon during rehearsals, and that doesn't diminish your value or spirit.

Tips to Manage Feelings of Inclusion

To help you navigate this situation, here are some strategies to manage your feelings:

Communicate with Your Teammates: Open communication is key. Speak to your teammates and coach to understand why you are not always involved. Sometimes, there may be logistical or skill-based reasons for your limited participation that you can work on improving. Seek Support from Other Dancers: Even if you are a reserve, other team members may experience similar feelings. Building a supportive network can help you share experiences and relieve some of the isolation you are feeling. Engage in Personal Dance Practice: Use your downtime to focus on improving your solo dance skills. This way, you can continue to grow as a dancer and stay motivated to improve your chances of active participation in the future. Consider Private Training: If you feel you are not progressing as quickly as you’d like, investing in private training can dramatically improve your skills and increase your likelihood of being called upon. Explore Alternative Opportunities: Consider joining other dance clubs or groups on campus or in the community. This can provide you with additional dance practice and a support network outside of your main team.

Partner Dance and Competition

A potential solution to your feelings of being left out during rehearsals is to find a partner to dance with competitively. While being a reserve means you are often not needed, having a partner who is also a reserve could create a scenario where you both have a higher chance of being called upon when needed. This not only provides you with more consistent dance practice but also builds camaraderie with another dancer.

Conclusion

While being a reserve on a competitive dance team can be challenging, it doesn't mean your efforts and dedication are wasted. By understanding your role, seeking support, and exploring alternative opportunities, you can manage your feelings of inclusion and continue to grow as a dancer. Remember, every experience, whether grand or small, contributes to your journey and development in the dance world.