INTRODUCING EVANGELINE…
Eva started Physie 4 years ago as a little 6 year old. When she first started she was extremely self-conscious, so much so that she refused to wear a leotard.
HEAR FROM EVA’S TEACHER…
When I was finally able to coerce her into a team leotard for a team practice only, she pulled it so far down at the sides that I’m sure she would have pulled it all the way to her knees if she could have. Jokes aside, it goes to show that body image is a serious concern and can start as young as 6. Negative body image can be compounded by other children’s teasing and even bullying. Eva’sconcerns were a responsibility that her teacher didn’t take lightly. Eva’s mum and teacher workedtogether from different angles, focusing on what Eva’s body can do instead of what it looks like andhelping her to make healthy lifestyle choices. Four years later Eva is a very outgoing and confident 10 year old who is more than happy to put on a leotard and perform in front of hundreds of people!
Eva is a true team player and understood that she would be letting her team down if she didn’t wear her team leotard so she put her personal feelings aside, even as a 6 year old and did what was needed for the benefit of her team. And they even won a prize at the Qld State Team Competitions. The following year, just days before Team Competitions, Eva broke her ankle and was very upset that she couldn’t perform with her team. But, on the day, she travelled for over an hour with her Mum and turned up in her wheelchair to support her team. Teacher, Julie, says “I am so proud of you Eva and I can’t wait to walk beside you in your Physie journey.”
HEAR FROM EVA…
Q: What do you like about Physie?
A: I like that you can get out and be active and get healthier. I love the different types of dances and that you can dance with your friends. I like that my club has nice people and you can make new friends every year. I like my teachers because they’re fun, helpful and supportive and Miss Julie really helps me.
Q: What is your proudest moment?
A: Trying my best at competitions.
HEAR FROM EVA’S MUM…
This will be Evangeline’s fifth year of Physie. She was very shy to begin and very nervous about wearing a leotard. She made friendships, learned the routines and joined the team competition in her first year. Evangeline has learnt self-discipline through Physie and her posture has improved. She realises that striving in a competitive nature brings many rewards, not always in the form of winning but about team work, working hard individually, committing and practicing. She is naturally driven and sets goals for herself to achieve. Physical Culture and Westside club have been wonderful for her self-esteem! She loves to dance, loves Physie and is thriving.
Heidi Boardman Performing Art Gallery
Photography: Heidi Boardman
What should I eat before a competition?
Depending on how close you are to performing, will change your ratio of macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein and fat).
THE POWER OF FRIENDSHIP
You can’t buy self-confidence right? No. But you can get it through friendship. Your Physie friends have your
TIP OF THE WEEK.
Forward and Side Toe Points When executing a toe point it is important to keep both legs straight