Cessnock dancers Kyla Borghero and Tayla Minchinton will represent Australia in the International Dance Organisation (IDO) team this year.
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This team of 30 dancers from across the entire nation will compete at the IDO World Dance Cup in Korea in July and the IDO World Tap Dance Championships in Germany in December.
IDO is a highly-regulated, non-profit organisation whose worldwide events incorporate more than 90 countries, showcasing the most elite dancers from across the globe.
Kyla and Tayla were both began tap dancing at Sloan's Dance Academy in Cessnock in 2006 when they were four years old.
Ten years later, both girls have attained countless awards in their sport, including numerous championship titles throughout New South Wales.
Sloan’s Dance Academy principal Kelly Sloan Egan said the duo’s selection in the national team was a reward for their hard work and extraordinary commitment to dance.
“It’s a significant achievement for these girls, and hopefully it will create opportunities for other local dancers,” she said.
“These events are like the Olympics of dance – the most elite platform, never have we had Hunter dancers involved in such a huge competition.”
The girls are excited to be representing Australia, Cessnock and Sloan’s Dance Academy on the international stage.
“I was ecstatic. I still can't believe it,” Kyla said.
“I will get to be with people who also are as passionate about dancing as I am and be able to see a totally new and different part of the world.”
Tayla agreed: “I would never of thought that tap dancing would take me to the other side of the world.
“The dream would be for Kyla and I to return with an international title.”
For Kyla and Tayla to fulfil their dream of attending both competitions in Korea and Germany, they are seeking sponsorship.
While some IDO countries receive government support, the Australian team does not. Both trips will not be possible without sponsorship.
Any person or business who can assist can contact Kelly on 0402 117 752 or mkegan@hotmail.com.