So You Think You Can Clog? 4-H Has New Club

If you're a teenager looking for something new to try, look no further, because clogging is coming to a dance hall near you.

The Morris County 4-H group has created a clogging club, set to meet on June 1 at Crossroads Community Church in Flanders from 7 to 9 p.m. The club is free to join. 

Taylor McWilliams, 14, of Long Valley, will serve as the teen leader of the newly forming clogging club.

The following information is from a press release provided by the club:

Clogging, an energetic style of dance, has wowed fairgoers for many years at the annual Morris County 4-H Fair. This year, youth in grades fourth through one year out of high school are invited to join the new Morris County 4-H clogging club.  The first meeting will be held on June 1, 2012 at the Crossroads Community Church in Flanders, NJ. Club members will meet on the first and third Fridays of each month from 7 to 9 p.m. There are no fees join a 4-H club.

The roots of clogging date back to the 18th century in the Appalachian Mountains. This distinctively American dance was developed from a rich blend of European and native folk dances. The fast footwork and distinctive shoe taps make clogging an eye catching show stopper. Robin McWilliams, the new 4-H clogging club’s leader, became interested in clogging after watching her daughter practice her routines.  “I could see she was enjoying the dances so I decided to give it a try. Not only is it great exercise, but I love being able to express myself in such a unique way.”

Kelly Allison, 4-H Program Associate, was first introduced to clogging at the Morris County 4-H Fair two years ago.  “I was stunned by the performance of the youth dancers.  It was obvious that they were enjoying every minute of the dances.  Now that 4-H has welcomed the new clogging club, I’m looking forward to seeing more youth on the stage dancing.”

Rachel Lyons, 4-H Agent, recommends the new 4-H clogging club for youth who are interested in getting active, developing a new talent, and discovering new friendships.  All skill levels are welcome to join in the fun.  Basic dance steps and an introduction to clogging will be provided. 

For more information about the 4-H Clogging Club, or the 4-H program in general, visit the Morris County 4-H website at http://morris.njaes.rutgers.edu/4h or contact the county 4-H Office at 973-285-8300 X3. All kids, grades 1-13 (one year out of high school), are always welcome to join 4-H. In addition, the 4-H staff is ready to provide orientation and training for any adults interested in serving as 4-H volunteers.