If Pop Warner football allowed elaborate touchdown celebrations, it would be hard to beat anything performed by the Everett Junior Crimson Tide’s Aaron Connor in the end zone.
Aaron, son of Everett Police officer Rick Connor and Phunk Phenomenon Dance Studio owner Reia Briggs-Connor, is officially one of the best junior dancers in the United States after helping the L’ilPhunk Dance Crew take home the national championship from the Hip Hop International competition in Phoenix, Arizona.
Aaron, who at 8 years old was one of the youngest performers in the nationals, combined his talents with his eight dance mates (four boys and five girls) to outpoint teams from throughout the United States and capture the gold medal. He also received a “National Champions” hat and banner.
Aaron began in dance six years ago under the tutoring of his mother, Reia, a former New England Patriots cheerleader and Miss Chelsea pageant winner.
“She taught me dance when I was younger and she’s helped me get better and better,” said Aaron. I’ve been dancing my whole life. I want to thank my parents and my brother, Jared, for all their support and cheering us on in Arizona.”
Aaron performed his own special dance move during the team’s winning routine that was performed to music by Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch.
Aaron will be performing with the L’ilPhunk Crew at Boston Celtics games before 19,000 fans at the TD Garden.
“Sometimes I get really nervous because there are some famous people there,” said Aaron.
As for his Pop Warner football career, Aaron has begun practices with the Junior Crimson Tide Pop Warner ‘E’ team. He plays linebacker, safety, running back, and wide receiver.
His teammates know all about his superb dancing moves.
“Sometimes I show them my dance flips after practice,” he said humbly.