Well, folks, it’s that time of year when students are making their final decisions on where to attend college for the next four years, and for athletic teams, that means announcing the incoming freshmen.

Recently, the three-time national champions, the Penn State Lionettes, announced the athletes they’ve signed from around the country to come to Happy Valley next year. While every year the talent of these incoming freshmen gets better and better, this year, the Lionettes made a historic pick for one of their spots: signing the first-ever male Lionette in Penn State History.

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Before he makes his way to represent the blue & white, we decided to sit down with Braeden Gray and hear his story.

Onward State: What initially inspired you to audition for the Penn State Lionettes?

Braeden Gray: I was inspired to audition for the Lionettes because the program truly stands out as one of a kind. After watching them compete at UDA Nationals, their performance quality really stuck with me and motivated me to take the next step. I also spoke with senior captain Abby O’Shea, who is an alum of my dance studio. Hearing about her experience made Penn State feel like an incredible place to grow both as a dancer and as a student.

OS: Can you walk us through your initial reaction when you found out you made the team?

BG: I received the email while my dad was driving us home from auditions. I was immediately ecstatic and honored to be offered a spot. There was also a huge sense of relief knowing my hard work had paid off. I called my mom right away to share the news since she wasn’t able to attend auditions, and it was a really special moment for my family.

OS: What does it mean to you to be the first male Lionette in program history?

BG: Being the first male Lionette means the world to me. It’s an incredible milestone, and it makes me appreciate everyone who helped me get here. I’m especially grateful for my training at Intensity Dance Academy and the mentors who pushed me to be my best. I’m also honored that coach Jackie has given me this opportunity, and I hope to represent the program with pride.

OS: How has the team welcomed you since joining?

BG: The team has been so incredible and welcoming to me and all of the other freshmen! They truly took initiative by reaching out to all of us and making group chats, as well as providing basic tips for college. They have already given so much guidance and support, and I am so thrilled to call them my teammates.

OS: What challenges did you face during the audition process, and how did you overcome them?

BG: The audition process definitely saw a lot of nerves. One of the biggest challenges was definitely trying to navigate which teams would be open to taking a boy. Some teams are renowned for their femininity, while others welcome boys, so it was truly an overwhelming process. However, I am so relieved and overjoyed to have made it through this process with such a dynamic team at a great university!

OS: How do you hope your presence on the team impacts others, especially male dancers?

BG: I hope my presence encourages others to pursue opportunities that may not seem traditional. I wouldn’t be where I am today without role models who inspired me, and I hope to do the same for future dancers. If I can help show that there’s space for everyone in collegiate dance, that would mean a lot.

OS: What has been your favorite moment with the Lionettes so far?

BG: During auditions, everyone helped each other review the combinations and stayed positive throughout the process. Even in such a high-stress environment, it was amazing to see everyone come together and support one another. That sense of community really stood out to me.

OS: How do you plan to balance academics with the demands of being on a competitive dance team?

BG: Throughout high school, I developed strong time management skills while balancing academics and dance. I understand that the collegiate level will require even more discipline, and I’m prepared for that challenge. I also like to think of academic learning similarly to learning choreography — if I can quickly pick up a combo in the studio, I can apply that same focus in the classroom.

OS: What is your advice for others looking to audition for a collegiate dance team? 

BG: My biggest advice is to watch and learn from others. My studio coach always says your eyes are your best teacher, and I really believe that. It’s also important to build connections and show your personality. Strong technique is important, but teams are also looking for someone who contributes positively to the group dynamic.

OS: Looking ahead, what are your goals as a member of the Lionettes this season?

BG: My goal is to contribute to the team’s legacy in any way I can. I want to continue growing as a dancer, learn from coach Jackie and the upperclassmen, and bring positive energy to the team. I’m excited to work hard and represent the Lionettes at a high level.