You might know Shane McGregor as the #2 on the football field who isn’t Chaz Powell, but this weekend, he’ll be showing off his skills in a different venue. Nope, I’m not talking about his self-proclaimed talent for “throwing things,” I’m talking about dancing. Tomorrow, the senior quarterback and his renowned flowing blonde locks will be hitting the dance floor to represent Parmi Nous in THON 2012.

Shane has had an “intense interest in THON” for quite some time. As a freshman and sophomore, he danced alongside his teammates in the Pep Rally. During his junior year, he participated in Athlete Hour, a time during THON weekend when Four Diamonds families are invited to the Lasch Football Building for a tour and meet-and-greet with Penn State athletes. He’s also participated in the Make-A-Wish program alongside his teammates and spent time on the floor during THON. For McGregor, these experiences were truly touching and inspiring.

Emotionally remembering his first THON and the impression it left on him, he stressed the importance of realizing the greatness of the event. “You need to step back and think about the first time you ever saw THON. It’s just awesome! All the people, colors, passion, energy…”

Shane pointed out that, since THON is such a routine part of our lives as Penn State students, it is easy to forget the incredible accomplishment we have each year. “It’s like a packed house for a football game, but its even better – everyone is spirited and passionate, and it doesn’t just last for two halves, it lasts for forty-six hours! And there isn’t even a benefit for people doing it. It raises nine or ten million dollars for other people.”

When you consider that McGregor’s simultaneously working towards degrees in print journalism and English, being an active member of Parmi Nous, participating in various campus prayer groups (one of which he founded), and, oh yeah, being a quarterback for Penn State Football, the time and dedication that he puts into THON is a strong testament to his passion for the cause. But participating in the Pep Rally, Athlete Hour, and the Make-A-Wish Program just wasn’t enough for Shane. After he saw what a difference these programs alone could make, he wanted to do everything he could to increase his impact.

McGregor’s efforts certainly did not go unnoticed. His four-year wish was finally granted when he was selected as a dancer in this year’s THON. The dedicated athlete didn’t have to change much in order to prepare for this feat; it might be the off-season, but Shane never stops putting a “National Championship effort” into everything he does. Lifting workouts, ice baths, and stretching are just a few of the physical aspects of his preparation (and his daily routine). McGregor is also a strict follower of the “paleo” diet, which involves “eating like a caveman.” This regimen includes eliminating any and all processed foods to have the most natural diet possible. It’s probably safe to say that Shane will be the most physically prepared dancer in the BJC.

Although he said that picking out his favorite part of THON was almost as difficult as being a THON dancer, McGregor said he’s looking forward to the final few hours, the most physically and emotionally intense part of THON.  Naturally, he also can’t wait to see what his football teammates will whip up for the Pep Rally this year–though he doubts that it could ever be as good a performance as it was when he participated–and to meet all of the families. Not unlike most of the THON dancers, Shane plans on breaking it down to “Levels” and “Beautiful People” [Shane, if you’re reading this, I’m issuing my official challenge to a “Levels” dance-off] and chowing down on all of the meals throughout the weekend.  He even took some initiative on his own Prop Bets by guessing a few things that will be in the line dance: the Super Bowl, the race for the Republican nomination, and Adele, who he affectionately refers to as “my girl.”

One last fact about Shane McGregor is possibly the most interesting thing about him: he wants to be a professional storyteller. He said that he’s fascinated by the fact that “everyone has a story” and that these stories can be told in so many different ways. One story he will never forget is that of Joe Paterno and the mark that he has left on all of us.

“One thing that Penn State is very good at is rallying around things. Look at everyone filling up the BJC for THON; rallying around a cause. This was instilled upon us based upon his values – the things he taught and believed in. He always told us to make an impact, and more than anything, THON does.”