Gresham senior Rhythmette Maddy Haynes loves to perform contemporary routines.
Gresham senior Rhythmette Maddy Haynes loves to perform contemporary routines.

[Author’s note: “Senior Spotlight” is a miniseries offering a quick look at some of Oregon’s Class of 2022 dance standouts. Today, we are getting to know Gresham dancer Maddy Haynes. Outside of the dance team, Haynes is President of the GHS Theatre Arts Council and serves as the Publicity Manager for the GHS Choir Council. We provided Haynes with a series of questions to answer. Her responses are below!]

OSAAtoday: What style of dance do you enjoy performing the most?

Maddy Haynes: I love performing contemporary routines! Contemporary has always held a special place in my heart!

OSAAtoday: What part of the dance team season is your favorite and why?

Haynes: My favorite part of the season is when the OSAA State Championships rolls around. This is the time when you really begin connecting with your teammates and understanding one another even better than you had before. You really start understanding who you are as a dancer and what your true potential is!

OSAAtoday: What is your most memorable high school experience?

Haynes: I would have to say when I got to attend USA Dance Nationals with my team freshman year. It was so cool getting to experience a whole new side of competing with my team. We even were lucky enough to place second with our jazz routine which was such a crazy feeling. Nothing beats hearing your team’s name called while sitting at awards!

OSAAtoday: What’s next for you after graduation? Will you pursue dance after high school?

Haynes: I’ve never been sure about what I want to do after high school. I just know I want to travel! As for dance, I would love to continue dancing in any way I can. Whether that be joining a pro-team, teaching, etc. I would just like to do whatever possible to continue dancing!