2012-13 Luvabulls: Meet Cristina

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What does being a member of the Luvabulls mean to you?

Dancing for the Bulls is and has been an amazing honor. Everyone involved, from the Bulls organization to our director, wants to make you the best that you can possibly be and not just in regards to dancing. It has changed my life in many positive ways—not to mention the incredible experience of dancing in front of over twenty thousand passionate fans for this great Bulls team. I even had the opportunity to travel and dance with the Luvabulls in Hong Kong, which is something I otherwise would never have been able to do. The Bulls are known and loved worldwide, so I feel very proud to be a part of the family.

How has your dancing experience led you to this point?

I started dancing when I was three years old at Karen’s School of Acrobatics and Dance, where I studied ballet, tap, jazz and acrobatics. I participated in many competitions over the years and even performed on the “Bozo Show” when I was eleven years old. I continued dancing with my high school drill team and was part of a hip-hop group, “Dance 2XS,” in college. Throughout the years, I have had former Luvabulls as instructors, so the idea to audition began early on. Coupled with my passion for sports, Luvabulls is a dream job.

What is your claim to fame—besides being a Luvabull?

Although I was young, I performed on the “Bozo Show” with a handful of girls from my studio. I absolutely loved the show and remember having so much fun while filming. It was the first time I saw myself on TV too, so it is something that I will never forget.

What do you do for a living?

I work as a legal assistant for a busy downtown firm.

Describe the feeling of performing at a Bulls playoff game.

There is absolutely nothing else like it! Chicago is blessed with amazing and passionate fans. To this day, I get chills during the starting lineup from the energy in the stadium for regular season games, so playoff games are on another level completely. The fans, entertainment, and even just the addition of “Playoffs” on the stadium floor amplify the mood and energy. From tip-off to the ending buzzer, it is simply the best feeling in the world.

What people do you admire the most and how have they supported or inspired you as a dancer?

I admire people that really go for what they want in life and who work hard to make it happen. My family and friends are those people and are also my biggest supporters. My parents have always encouraged me to pursue what I love and have been there every step of the way.

What is your proudest accomplishment to date and where do you see yourself in 10 years?

My proudest accomplishment is graduating with honors from the University of Illinois. Ten years from now, I hope to just be happy and doing what I love.