Formally based out of Encore Dance Co., the Southwest Michigan’s Extreme Poms Team took part in the “Disney Parks Christmas Parade” television special, which aired on ABC Dec. 25.

Over 600 performers gathered at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort at the Walt Disney World Resort from Dec. 5 to Dec. 8 to perform in the parade, which also featured performances by popular artists such as Mary J. Blige and Jordin Sparks.

The participants, originating from 36 states, were cheerleaders or dancers who qualified at one of National Cheerleaders Association’s (NCA) and the National Dance Alliance’s (NDA) Summer Camps across the country. Cheer participants had to receive an All-American Award, Top Team Award or Champion Chant Award to qualify to attend, while dance participants had to receive a Team Award, Team Leader Circle of Winners Award, All-American or Gold Recipient in Team Dance Circle of Winners. This select group represents the best all-around cheer and dance talent attending one of more than 400 NCA or NDA Summer Camps held each summer. In just two short practices, the group perfected the performance in the parade.

The Poms worked very hard over the summer and met the required qualifications through an NDA Award.  Now dancing under the direction of Miss Michele & Co., The Poms Team has every intention of moving forward and continuing to remain active in the community through many upcoming events. You can watch the girls live during their next event at the Notre Dame Basketball Game held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 2, where they will be performing for your entertainment.

Miss Michele & Co. is excited to have the team on board and plans on announcing future events for The SWMI Extreme Poms Team through the studio’s public Facebook page.  For more information on POMS, please contact the studio at: (269)762-7764 or follow the studio on Facebook, Facebook.com/MissMicheleAndCo.com.