On March 1, Skyler Leonay van Rooyen from Infinity Dance Studio (IDS) entered the NDSSA Victory Cup literally the night before the competition and walked away taking first place in both her sections.

“I felt nervous and happy because I love to dance,” Skyler admitted.

Despite the pressure, she improvised two routines using older music, recalling every move her teacher had taught her and observing her fellow dancers.

“I was shaking before I went on the dance floor, but it was a lot of fun,” she said.

Her favourite routine was lyrical, set to a song about Jesus.

“I danced for Jesus, the devil throws me, and Jesus catches me,” she explained.

A young dancer inspired by mentors

Skyler credits her teachers and peers for her growth.

“Teacher Chevonne, Kayla, and Kaitlyn inspire me because I want to dance like them,” she said.

Her love for dance spans lyrical, showdance, and jazz.

“I feel my heart beating fast when I dance, but then I feel so happy afterwards,” she added.

Winning first place in both sections was an unforgettable moment.

“Very exciting,” Skyler said.

The cherry on top came when she received her South African National Federation Colours, a dream come true.
“I was so happy, but I still want to win lots of trophies and medals and go dance all over the world,” she said.

Family support and balance

Skyler’s mother, Jessica, shared how dance has helped her daughter grow in confidence.

“Skyler was always very shy, but dancing has brought out who she really is. She is not scared to take up a task and always does her best,” she said.

Both parents support her by encouraging, guiding, and praying with her, allowing Skyler to pursue her passion without pressure.

Jessica added that balancing school, training, and competitions is easier because of flexible work arrangements.
“Skyler loves school; she is a very intelligent young girl,” she said.

Instructor praises her dedication

Chevonne Sanders, Skyler’s dance instructor, praised her performance at the NDSSA Victory Cup.

“She went onto the floor, showcasing what it takes to win it all. We were in the process of working on brand new routines, so she used her old music and improvised two routines, and the results speak for themselves.”

Skyler achieved remarkable scores of 93% in showdance and 97% in lyrical, taking first place in both sections.
“What the mind believes, the body achieves. So proud of you, my Sky.” Chevonne said.

Looking ahead

Skyler has already danced many styles, including lyrical, showdance, and jazz, and she is preparing for numerous competitions and new routines in the near future.