The Demon Dazzlers are a group of determined individuals who perform alongside the Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band at games and events around Natchitoches. They practice throughout the week together under the leadership of Coach Brandi Chasteen and Captain Jillian Duggan.
Jillian Duggan, a senior dance major, is enjoying her second year as captain of the Demon Dazzlers. One of her favorite memories from this year is celebrating her birthday during dance camp. “My team surprised me with a cake, they took me to Whataburger and everyone got diet cokes because that’s my favorite drink,” Duggan said. “They made me feel really special.”
Duggan also notes that being a Demon Dazzler is worth all the strenuous work. “It’s worth it when you’re able to dance with people who have that same passion and drive for dance that you do,” Duggan said.
Aleysia Trahan, a senior psychology major, has been a dancer for 17 years and has danced on the team for the past three. Trahan joined the Demon Dazzlers to continue her growth as a dancer. “I still had so much more progress to make while dancing and I didn’t want to stop because it’s my passion,” Trahan said.
Alexis Blalock, a sophomore business administration major, loves to dance and bond with her teammates. “The best thing is our team bondings that we did over the summer,” Blalcok said. “It was so fun!”
Mackenzie Scroggs is a junior dance major who started dancing when she was just 18 months old at a Mommy and Me class. Scroggs’ favorite moment this year was returning to Turpin Stadium after taking a break her sophomore year. “It felt like it did my freshman year. It was a full circle moment for me,” Scroggs said.
Trahan’s favorite part of being a Demon Dazzler is watching the sunrise during their morning runs and spending time with her teammates. “I really enjoyed being with the Dazzlers my entire college experience. I love them all,” Trahan said.
The success of the Demon Dazzlers is often attributed to their coach, Brandi Chasteen. Many dancers note the significance of Chasteen’s encouragement and experience as a former Dazzler. Teamwork is crucial for the team, and each leap and turn is synchronized with the love the Demon Dazzlers have for dance and each other.
