When the New Orleans Hornets announced finalists for the first ever Honeybees Dance Team last week, 20 young women were left standing.
Among those who were chosen, five are University students. Ashley Doucette, Jessica Palmer, Katie Stearns, Lisa Tesvich and Angelle Tymon will represent LSU in front of Hornets fans at home games.
More than 375 women took part in the initial tryouts held in both Baton Rouge and New Orleans.
“All of the women who auditioned were exceptionally talented,” said Steve Martin, Hornets vice president of communications and public affairs.
The five University students who made the team attribute their success to years of past dancing experience for their high schools and the ability to perform under pressure.
“I feel confident in my dancing abilities since so many girls tried out. Confidence had a lot to do with making the team,” said Tesvich, a textiles junior.
Hornets Public Relations Assistant Kurt Fedders said judges examined a “combination of dancing ability, showmanship, energy level and facial expression” when choosing the dance team members.
The Honeybees, including the five University students, will perform during breaks at the Hornets 41 home games in New Orleans Arena. The team will practice two to three times weekly in Kenner.
Palmer, a biological sciences freshman, said she will not have a problem balancing school with work.
“We [LSU students] carpool on the way to New Orleans. One of us studies while the other drives,” Palmer said.
The Hornets will pay the Honeybees $50 per game and $35 per hour for other appearances. However, Stearns, an education freshman, said she would work for free.
“I am getting paid for something I love,” she said.
But when asked about considering relocating to New Orleans to accommodate her new job, Tesvich said she would stay at LSU.
“I hope to do a great job and make LSU proud,” she said.
Doucette, a computer engineering major, and Tymon, a mass communication major, were unavailable for comment.