By Jillian Kestler-D'Amours,
MontrealAlouettes.com

St-Jean-sur-Richelieu - At first glance, Maggie T. and Michelle G. look like your average 20-somethings. They both go to school, hang out with friends and love dancing. But unlike most of their peers, their passion for performing has manifested itself in a serious way.

Maggie and Michelle's long-time dance experience has made them two of the Alouettes' newest cheerleaders — yet both say they never expected to make the squad in the first place.

"I called my mother to tell her that I wasn't going to be chosen," Maggie said. "So I was really surprised when they called my number (after the auditions)."

The 20-year-old is finishing up a three-year cinema and communications program at CEGEP Maisonneuve. Next year, she will head to UQÀM to study administration.

"I've always worked without getting a break, so I'm used to it. I like doing many things at once," said Maggie about her many commitments. On top of her studies and cheerleading, she also teaches dance in her hometown of Varennes.

Maggie said her mother, a dance instructor, introduced her to dance at the young age of three. She was hooked immediately and was a quick learner.

"(The Alouettes cheerleaders) all learn the dances really fast, so I fit in well. I've realized that it's not a competition though — we talk and we help each other" she said.

Michelle agreed. "You'd think it's going to be a big cat fight, but it's not like that at all,"said the 21-year-old about her first-ever audition experience.

Instead, Michelle said the atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive. Still, she explained that the process was nerve-racking, especially since there were so many girls in a small space.

A native of St-Bruno, Michelle has been teaching dance there for years. She started dancing herself at the age of eight and has tried hip-hop, jazz, funky and even tap.

"And I did my DEC in dance at CEGEP St-Laurent," she added.

Michelle is currently in her third year of kinesiology studies at the University of Montréal. She wants to pursue a Master's degree in kinesiology as well.

Her main interest in medicine is cardiac re-adaptation. This branch of sciences involves helping individuals with heart problems resume everyday life through evaluations and private or group therapy.

Michelle is also no stranger to volunteer work, as she has done internships at various hospitals around Montreal throughout her studies. In that manner, the cheerleaders' involvement in the community really grabbed her interest.

Despite their greater goals and other commitments, both Michelle and Maggie said they are anxious to get actual game experience as Alouettes cheerleaders.

"I went to see a game last season and I only watched the cheerleaders,"Maggie said. "This is over and above my expectations."

Michelle feels the same way. "At first it's intimidating, but I can't wait to get out onto the field and have so many people watching."