NW Valley Times

Grand Canyon University students have found a new way to socialize and have fun through the American Kids club, where they gather to learn and enjoy country swing and line dancing. Lead instructor Ashley Boomershine attributes the club's popularity to the rise of country music and social media influencers participating in dance competitions. She notes, "I think Arizona is big for it; there’s a really big swing dancing community outside GCU."

President of American Kids, Kyndal Downing, emphasizes the inclusive nature of the club, stating, "It’s come as you are, no matter who you are, whether you know how to dance or not." Instructor Riley Kollbaum echoes this sentiment, saying, "If you got two feet, you can dance. I love the openness, the inclusivity."

The club's activities attract a diverse group of students, as Kollbaum points out, "We got sports bros – I’m a nerd engineer – we got science majors, psychology majors, all under the branch of dancing." The club provides a platform for students to bond over a shared interest in dancing, with member Angelo Luciani expressing, "It’s more fun when you mess up. When you’re doing something you’ve never done before, it’s more of an experience."

According to Boomershine, dancing serves as a valuable social outlet, allowing people to connect and make new friends. Kollbaum adds a playful note, "Women love men who can dance. You can write that down. Men come to learn, and girls bring their guys to learn."

The club offers both line dance and swing dance instructions, providing students with a well-rounded dancing experience. Students can be seen practicing intricate dance moves and enjoying open dancing sessions. Junior Mckenna Tidwell shares her experience, stating, "My main community has come from it – a lot of my best friends do it."

Instructor Kollbaum describes the unique style of swing dancing taught at the club, highlighting its beats-based and interactive nature. He explains, "You use each other for momentum and use each other’s momentum to do the moves. It’s physics." The club members engage in friendly competitions and prize events, enhancing their dancing skills and overall enjoyment.

Overall, the American Kids club at Grand Canyon University has created a vibrant and inclusive community where students can come together to express themselves through dance. The club not only offers a fun and energetic outlet but also serves as a platform for students to form lasting friendships and connections.

For more information on GCU student clubs, visit their official website or Instagram page.