SpotlightFX ?? Meet Liz, Dancing Superstar

A simple Google search for the benefits of dancing leads to a multitude of results talking up the social, emotional, and physical benefits of this creative outlet. But dance is more than an exercise or social experience for Liz Wardwell , Internet Marketing Specialist at WebFX.

For Liz, dance has been an essential part of her life, taking her around the world and opening up new avenues for artistic expression.

When she's not growing her clients' businesses through cutting-edge digital marketing strategies, Liz is performing for thousands of hockey fans as a Philadelphia Flyers cheerleader.

We asked Liz what life is like as a professional Internet marketer and NHL cheerleader, and she gave us all the details! Keep reading for more!

Q: Tell us about your experience with dance. What role has it played throughout your life?

A: Dance has always been an integral part of my life since before I can even remember. I grew up taking lessons at a local studio, which quickly transitioned into traveling across the country to learn from renowned instructors and performing almost every weekend during high school. I even had the opportunity to travel internationally while performing on a cruise ship — not just once, but twice!

After graduating high school, I joined the dance team at Millersville University and was also a member of a local professional dance company, emme dance collective. After my sophomore year of college, I decided to push past my comfort zone and start attending tryouts for professional teams in Philly. In 2019, I made my first pro team, dancing for the NLL Philadelphia Wings. A few years later, I made the Philadelphia Flyers Ice Team as a dancer!

Through those experiences and many others, I learned so much about my strength and determination. I wasn’t a “competition” dancer, so if you are picturing Dance Moms, that is quite the opposite of my upbringing! I learned how to persevere through challenges, share a stage with others as a cohesive group, and build my own and others’ self-confidence.?

Q: What (or who) inspires you to keep dancing?

A: I’ve always been surrounded by such high achieving role models who have inspired me to reach for the stars! My dance teachers, friends, coaches and mentors have accomplished so much themselves in their own dance careers.?

I credit most of my inspiration to my best friend from college, who had auditioned for and made an NFL cheer team during our sophomore year. Supporting her through her dance journey is really what inspired me to want to continue my own dance career beyond college.?

Q: Why did you decide to cheer with the Flyers?

A: After dancing for the Philadelphia Wings for two years, I was looking for a new challenge and wanted to audition for another opportunity in the area. I had a mentor who cheered for the Flyers previously and a friend who had made the team the year prior — they both had amazing things to say about the organization which led me to setting a new goal and signing up to audition for the team.?

Luckily, I was one of six dancers to be offered a rookie position. The absolute best part of this experience was auditioning with my sister, who also made the team. It’s such a special memory that we will share forever.

Q: What's it like being a professional NHL cheerleader??

A: There is nothing as exciting as watching the puck drop and seeing the fans in their element at Flyers games. If you are anything familiar with Philly sports, you know just how exciting these game environments can be!

One of my favorite parts is getting to interact with young fans before and during games, taking photos and making them feel as special as possible. It’s such an honor to serve as a role model for younger kids in the Philly community. There are a few kids that recognize me each year and it’s always so special to see them season after season.

Not only am I involved in the game day experience for fans at the Wells Fargo Center, I also represent the Flyers organization at various events in the community, like local non-profit events, watch parties, and more.

Q: Does your experience with dance influence the work you do at WebFX?

A: Performing in front of thousands of fans and for a wide range of audiences has really developed my confidence. I’m truly my team and clients’ biggest cheerleader and am always looking for ways to bring spirit and fun to the office!

Dance has also shaped my creativity, which I utilize when developing unique strategies for clients and understanding their creative visions. I’ve learned over the years that I really thrive being on a team and collaborating with others, which is invaluable at WebFX.

Most importantly, dance has allowed me to develop a strong work ethic. I’ve learned a lot about discipline after long and vigorous practices over several months, culminating with a single performance. There is so much beauty in the growth that comes from the journey to that final show. I’ve been able to apply that growth mindset to my role as an Internet marketer, which is foundational to our values at WebFX.

Q: How do you balance everything?

A: Luckily, I’ve had tons of practice learning how to balance dance with school, work, and other commitments. I pretty much grew up going from high school straight to dance class, not getting home until late to attempt to complete homework.?

It’s truly a privilege to have so many exciting opportunities in my life, so I make it a priority to successfully balance my time between work, Flyers games, and other commitments. I coached a high school dance team for the past four years, work as an assistant wedding planner on the weekends and serve as an associate board member for a local nonprofit.?

It’s safe to say that balancing all of these things isn’t always easy, but it brings me so much joy to have commitments that I’m so passionate about. I really couldn’t live without my color-coded calendar that helps me keep my life organized.??

Q: What's next in your dance journey?

A: Right now, I am thrilled to be returning for a third season with the Flyers.?

I do occasionally take adult dance classes and am always looking for ways to advance my technique and fuel my passion for dancing. I’m hoping to travel nationally over the next year to learn from talented choreographers in the pro sports industry across different leagues.?

I plan on dancing professionally for the coming years and would love to one day coach a team.?

Want to partner with a team of creative, determined digital marketing professionals like Liz? We'd love to chat with you and learn more about your business! Fill out the form on our website to get in touch with our team.