As a child, Mady Mosgeller didn’t just walk. “I don’t think she ever walked around the house,” her mother, Ashlea, recalls. “She was always twirling into the kitchen or leaping onto the bed.”

Mady’s love for dance began early—she started training at just four years old. According to Ashlea, becoming a dancer came naturally; Mady practically took her first steps on the dance floor.

Now 16 and a sophomore at Star Valley High School, that early passion has grown into a serious commitment to dance.

In school, Mady enjoys math and science, which has sparked an interest in pursuing aerospace engineering.

Outside of school, Mady spends much of her time practicing with the Star Valley Brave Cadettes dance team, which she joined as a freshman.

Her hard work will take her to the national stage this summer. The Star Valley High School sophomore will perform a lyrical solo at Encore Dance Nationals in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, at the end of June. She will perform to “Never Enough” from the musical The Greatest Showman.

Mady also trains with Wyld Dance Company in Pinedale, traveling regularly for three-hour practices throughout the year.

Because of the distance, she often practices on her own time as well. In preparation for nationals, Mady has been working closely with her choreographer while also refining her breathing and turns during independent practice.

When asked about the most challenging part of preparing for nationals, Mady said, “Practicing until it’s perfect.”

Although being on stage for many is daunting, it’s where Mady thrives. She spoke fondly of performing, describing the joy of stepping on stage in full costume, with her hair and makeup done. Mady says she loves how her brain “goes on autopilot” and how the warmth of the stage lights feels.

Her goal for nationals is to walk off the stage confident in her performance and earn a top ranking.

For young dancers who may be interested in the sport, Mady has simple advice: “Do it and give it 100%, even if you’re not sure. Be scared and nervous and find joy.”