A collage of photos of my daughter and I for Guys and Gals

Life as a Strutter Dad: My Journey with the Klein Oak Dance Team

Being a “Dance Dad” to a Klein Oak Strutter has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. What started as simply supporting my daughter has become a journey filled with unexpected lessons, proud moments, and cherished memories. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:

The Magic of “Guys and Gals”

There’s nothing quite like the annual “Guys and Gals” dance. For three years now, I’ve joined other fathers, brothers, and uncles on the football field at halftime, performing carefully choreographed routines to a medley of songs. Each year brings a new theme – from disco beats to our memorable surfers versus bikers showdown.

What makes these performances special isn’t the perfection of our moves (though we try our best!). It’s the connection formed through hours of practice, the laughs shared over forgotten steps, and the pride in our daughters’ eyes when we finally get it right. These rehearsals have given me precious time with my daughter during these busy high school years – time I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Friday Night Lights and Beyond

Watching my daughter perform with the award-winning Klein Oak Strutters at football games has become the highlight of my weekends. There’s a special energy when the team takes the field, their precision and synchronization showcasing months of dedicated practice. I’ve learned to appreciate the artistry and athleticism that goes into each performance – skills I never fully understood before becoming a Dance Dad.

Football games are just the beginning. Attending competitions where the Strutters face off against other dance teams has taught me about the incredible dedication these young women bring to their craft. The early mornings, the nerves before performances, the team hugs afterward – I’ve witnessed my daughter grow not just as a dancer but as a young woman through these experiences.

Lessons from the Sidelines

Perhaps what I’ve learned most is the value of showing up. Being present – whether it’s practicing our “Guys and Gals” routine in our living room, cheering from the stands, or serving as security during intense competitions filled with pushy family members – matters more than I ever imagined.

I’ve watched my daughter transform through her years as a Strutter, gaining confidence, learning teamwork, and developing discipline that extends far beyond dance. And surprisingly, I’ve grown too – finding community among fellow Dance Dads who started as strangers and have become friends.

As my daughter enters her senior year, I know these Strutter moments are precious and fleeting. So I’ll treasure every “Guys and Gals” dance, every halftime show, and every competition, grateful for the journey we’ve shared through this special time in her life.