There is only one group on campus that can say they are a "fusion of rhythm, spirit, creativity and energy"-the SHU FORCE dance team.

The F.O.R.C.E. is a group of 40 girls, who through an auditioning process, come together to form a non-competitive dance group.

"Being on F.O.R.C.E. is really great because it gives you the opportunity to do what you love to do, which is dancing," said senior Tiffany Grates.

"We all share the same love for dance and it's great to have 40 other people who support you."

With recitals held in April, and performances at events such as "SHU Idol," "Delta Showcase" and "Night at the Apollo," the group dances at every opportunity they can get.

One of these opportunities happened last weekend; on April 26, F.O.R.C.E. had their 5th annual recital. The concert consisted of two acts with a total of 16 different dance numbers incorporating all different forms of dance including ballet, jazz, and hip hop.

Speaking at the concert, Dawn Doucette, the F.O.R.C.E. advisor, praised the team for their hard work and dedication.

"This year's recitals posses the most eclectic forms of dance we have ever had; the group of girls participating in SHU F.O.R.C.E. this year are all very talented and very creative," said Doucette.

The showcase featured a variety of acts including solos, senior dances and even a special performance from F.O.R.C.E. alumni. With an array of music from Frank Sinatra to Missy Elliot, the girls kept the audience's attention with their well-choreographed moves.

"The girls really presented a strong show," said Mary Doherty.

"I really enjoyed how they incorporated older music from my generation with newer music; it showed a lot of diversity."

Gerry Mariani, who attended the show last year, felt there was a huge difference from last year's performance with a definite change for the better.

"All year we prepare for the recitals in the spring semester; that takes a lot of maturity, focus, drive, determination, energy, talent and love to see that goal all year-round," said Doucette.

The executive board of the team, including president Stephanie Serenita, choreographs the dances. Members of the team are given the opportunity to make core dances, which are smaller dances during the second semester.

"We had countless hours of practice but it was all worth it," said senior Kathleen Quinn.

"The final recital is a chance to show off all the hard work from practicing during the year."

With this year coming to an end, the graduating F.O.R.C.E. members can only look back at their time on the team and the experience that they had.

"Being on F.O.R.C.E. this past year has made my senior year that much better. The relationships and bonds formed with this year's team are incredible," said senior Lisa Cavalli.

"I am proud to say that I am a member of SHU F.O.R.C.E., it is something I will remember for the rest of my life."

With the seniors graduating and a new freshman class entering in the fall, the F.O.R.C.E. is looking for new members with auditions being held for new additions to the team.

"I recommend being on F.O.R.C.E. because you meet a lot of great people, and you are able to show off many different styles of dance," said senior Jessica Hartley.

"I have gained many new friendships over the past years, leadership skills, and many new dancing styles."

Full of rhythm, spirit, and creativity, the F.O.R.C.E. put on a performance that was praised by many and only looks to the future to see how they can top this year's performance.