Stanley-Boyd High School senior Mykel Wirtala has been recognized as this week’s Stanley-Boyd Athlete of the Week, showcasing not only her athletic ability but her incredible dedication to the art of dance. A standout member of the Relevé Dance Company, Mykel’s commitment to her craft has earned her admiration from both her instructors and peers.
Colette Wirtala, Owner/Director at Relevé Dance Company praised Mykel’s work ethic and passion, saying, “She is an extremely hard worker all around the studio. She puts in the time and effort needed to bring her very best to each dance she’s in. In addition to taking classes, she has also taught some classes over the past few years. With her strong technique and creative eye, it makes for a solid understanding of choreographing beautiful dances. We appreciate all she does and brings to Relevé!”
Mykel herself has been dancing for 15 years and has competed for 11 of those years, collecting numerous awards along the way. “Some of the awards I’ve won include Judge’s Choice awards, Overall High Point awards, and scholarships at various conventions,” she shared. Her impressive list of achievements highlights her hard work and talent, which have made her a fierce competitor in the competitive dance world.
For Mykel, the most rewarding aspect of dance is the teamwork involved. “Dance is impossible without cooperation and dedication from all members of the team and watching everyone come together to create something beautiful is very inspiring,” she said. She credits her peers as her biggest inspiration. “They are so supportive and talented, and attending conventions where I can learn from them is what pushes me to keep working hard.”
While Mykel has a broad appreciation for many styles of dance, her favorites are Jazz and Hip Hop, which she describes as “super fast-paced and fun to do!”
After graduation, Mykel is planning to attend the University of Minnesota Rochester to pursue a career in medicine. Whether she’s in the dance studio or pushing herself toward her academic goals, she exemplifies the spirit of hard work and dedication. It’s no wonder Mykel Wirtala has earned the title of Stanley-Boyd Athlete of the Week.
