SENATOBIA - A new face will be commanding the Northwest dance team this season, as Memphis native Patrice Christian has taken over the reins as the new coach of the program.

Christian will replace Elainna Allen, who departs after a six-year stint of leading what was formerly known as the Rangerettes

"I am thrilled to be joining the Northwest family," Christian said. "So far, I have been met with so much support, kindness and comradery. The atmosphere here is unlike anything I have experienced, largely due to the family style environment that is embodied throughout the entire athletic department and school administrators. I feel extremely honored to be here and I'm looking forward to what the future holds for our program."

Prior to Northwest, Christian served as the head coach of the College of Charleston dance team from 2011-21. During her time in Charleston, Christian guided the program to multiple top five finishes at UDA College Nationals. Last season, she led the program to its first national championship in the Division I Hip-Hop category.

Christian also simultaneously served as the head coach for the pom squad at Bishop England High School from 2011-21, where she also guided the program to several top 10 finishes at UDA Nationals. Most recently, she led Bishop England to a third place finish in last year's national competition.

Prior to her coaching career, Christian was a member of the University of Memphis Pom Squad and was part of a Tigers' squad that won the Division 1-A Hip-Hop national championship. She is also an alumnus of St. Agnes Academy.

Christian and the Northwest dance team will make their season debut at Meet the Rangers on Tuesday, August 24 at 7 P.M. The event will return to Bobby Franklin Field for the first time since 2018.