In this edition of Beyond the Wall, we sat down with the new Manager of the Orlando Predators Prowler Dance team Brandy Daimwood-Bouchy and new Director Deanna Clover.  Daimwood-Bouchy has previous experience as a Prowler and has also had captain duties with the NBA Orlando Magic Dance Team.  Orlando is currently in the process of finalizing the 2012 Prowlers roster.  Brandy gave us the inside scoop on what it takes to be an AFL Prowler.

Editor:  What do you look for in a Prowler?

Brandy Daimwood:  We are looking for girls that are hard workers, enthusiastic and have positive attitudes. Flexible schedules are key for those last minute promotions. Lastly, they need to be healthy and physically fit.

ED: What is the correct name of an Orlando Predators Prowler –dancers or cheerleaders?

BD:  We prefer “dancers,” not that there is anything wrong with being a cheerleader.  They are athletes as well and most of the time cheerleaders have a gymnastics background.  The Orlando Prowlers are geared towards dancing.  I would say the NFL is more of the cheerleader type, but the AFL and NBA are dancers.

ED:  How many girls are typically on an AFL dance team?

BD:  We normally have 12 to 20 girls on a team.  This year we will have 12 girls on the field for every game, and some will rotate through for promotions.

ED:  What types of roles are on a dance team?

BD:  We have the “Rookie” role, the girls who are brand new to the team.  There is also the “Veteran” role.  Teams rely heavily on veterans for leadership and showing rookies the ropes.  We also have “Captains.” They call the choreography in the end zone and have a bigger role than only being a veteran. They usually have been on the team for three-plus years.

ED:  What are key characteristics a Prowler must have?

BD:  The Score sheet is broken up into four categories and your appearance is one of them, choreography, enthusiasm, and the total package.  The total package criteria are that “extra sparkle” the girl may have; it cannot be taught.

ED:  Do you have any recommendations for girls interested in a shot at becoming a future Prowler?

BD:  Attend audition prep classes.  We will be hosting a prep class this Saturday, December 17.  Details for the last two prep classes are on OrlandoPredators.com.  The prep classes are run like the auditions, with routines and conditioning and ending with a question and answer session. If you are not able to make the prep classes, we recommend you get some dance training.  Being in shape when arriving to the prep class is key.  Most importantly, bring those positive attitudes and get ready to work!

ED:  Is having a dance background required?

BD:  Having a dance background is not a requirement but it is a huge plus. It definitely gives you an advantage but we have chosen girls with no dance experience that move well and have positive attitudes in the past.

ED:  How many days a week do the Prowlers practice?

BD:  Two days a week for two-to-three hours.

ED:  What is the compensation like?

BD:  It’s disclosed at the contract signing. I always tell the girls that it’s a full time commitment with part-time pay and great benefits. We also have great sponsors, such as tanning, apparel, and salons.

ED:  What is the biggest misconception about being a Prowler?

BD:  That dancing is our only responsibility.  Five percent is dancing at the games, 75 percent is hard work at rehearsals, and 20 percent are appearances and promotions.  Another misconception is dancers are uneducated.  That’s simply not true. I have had dancers who are doctors, teachers, students, and mothers.    

ED:  What can we expect from the 2012 Orlando dance team?

BD:  Fans can expect to see a phenomenal dance team on the field. The girls will always be energizing and entertaining the crowd and put on a good show.  Expect the girls to be positive role models in the community.  

ED:  Word on the street is MTV “MADE” will be filming a segment on the Prowler Dance Team.  What has the process been like thus far?

BD:  We are so excited MTV “MADE” is filming our audition process!  We have had only one audition prep class so far, but MTV will film the entire process.

ED:  Thoughts of being in the national spotlight?

BD:  It’s unique and exhilarating that we will have the stage with MTV to expose viewers to the Arena Football League! The Arena game is such exciting, “in your face” type of game.

ED:  Thank you Brandy for sitting down with us and Good Luck with auditions!  Be sure to check out OrlandoPredators.com for more information on prep classes and final auditions.