Member Spotlight - July 2016

Sophie Kelaher - 14 Years!

Tell us about when you started Physi.

I started doing physi in 2005, when I was 3 years old. I made some good friends in those first few years and enjoyed coming to class with Tamara and Kayla especially.

What brings you back to Physi?

The reason why I have continued with physi for so long is that I enjoy the challenge of learning new work each year and meeting the expectations of the more complicated routines as you progress through each age group. It is also great fitness and the strength, balance and flexibility gained in physi is definitely an asset when trying to master other sports. I have also started helping out in the 2-4 year old class, working with the youngest members of our physi club is great fun and hopefully some of them come to enjoy physi as much as I do.

What is the best part of your Physi Year?

The best part of physi for me is the reward for working really hard throughout the year and making it to State or even Grand. I also enjoy the team work and making great friends, especially last year when Anna and I stayed away for the weekend with our Mums and Nikki to attend a club comp, that was a fun weekend!

What challenges you in Physi?

I have come across challenges in physi when making it to Grand for a few years in a row and never getting a place, it can be frustrating but I use this to encourage more determination for the following year, to look at what areas I can improve on and to work towards those goals. There have been some highlights though, coming 2nd in 2012 (10 Years Section) and 3rd in 2014 (12 Years Section) and making it through to Grand in the tough 13-14 Year old section as a 13 year old to make my 8th consecutive Grand competition in 2015, to name a few! I am always excited to see what the next year will bring!

Who are your Physi role models?

When I want to improve I look to a couple of role models in the club, to Nikki for her knowledge and enthusiasm for dance (and her great help with makeup and hair), to Louise and Debbie for their support and advice on positions and technique and to Melissa for her stage presence and poise (and also for learning about how to become a great junior physi teacher).

Anything else you want to tell us?

Physi is a great sport and I can see myself being involved for a long time into the future!