CLEVELAND — In just two months, the NBA season tips off and our young and talented Cleveland Cavaliers squad returns to the hardwood to try and reach the promise of their enormous potential.
But they won’t be alone on their mission, especially on their home court where they’re cheered on not only by a rabid fan base but also a dance team, a scream team, a drum brigade, not one but TWO mascots, (shout out Moondog and Sir C.C.) and of course, the crowd-pleasing dance stylings of The Wine and Goldies: a group of local seniors who still have the moves.
They’re a group of high-energy, high birthday-count dancers who entertain the masses at mid-court periodically throughout the season. But you’d never guess that most of these performers were over 60 if you watched them warm up to the Quad City DJ’s classic “C’Mon n' Ride It (The Train)” in preparation for today’s audition.
They don’t allow just any random jitterbugging pensioner to join up. You have to earn your way onto this elite squad. And this is where you do it.
Over 100 hopeful hoofers showed up to audition and try and earn their way onto one of the biggest stages in the city. And these folks came to win.
I admit I’m not much of a dancer, but being a Wine and Goldie is a great gig. Free Cavs games, exercise, new friends, and you KNOW some of these seniors have hard candy to share. So I decided to throw my hat in the ring.
Please enjoy my attempt at joining this vibrant organization.