The Royales will be going to Disney World to march in the parade on Jan. 14-18. Although the drill team went to New York last year, they are just as excited to go to Florida this year. Since the girls will be marching rather than performing, they are preparing for their trip in a different and less physical way.

“We have been preparing by counting down the days,” junior Molly Shipper said. “We are getting motivated.”

The five-day trip is less focused on dancing and more focused on the teamwork aspect.

“I’m excited to spend quality time with the team and have fun at Disney,” Senior Lieutenant Rani Zierath said. “It’s the perfect time to bond outside of practice.”

The requirements to go to the event are geared more towards work and grades as opposed to dancing aspects.

“We are making sure our grades are up,” junior Sydney Shusterman said, “so hopefully we are able to attend.”

Even though the girls are marching rather than performing a routine, the team is still looking for ways to improve future performances through the trip.

“The trip will probably bring us closer together so we can motivate each other and work well together for performances after the trip,” Shusterman said.

The seniors who were on drill team last year know what it is like to perform in front of big audiences. Last year during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the girls had to dance in what had been the coldest winter in a long time.

“The difference between the two trips is that Disney is all about the Royales without the dancing,” Zierath said. “It’s basically a fun way to encourage better relations whereas New York was more dancing with a lot of free time.”

After the trip in January, the team will be geared towards their competition in February. Until then, however, the trip to Disney World will be a chance to bond, relax and have fun.

“I’m very excited and not nervous,” Zierath said. “It’s just hanging out with my friends.”