Kendall Vertes, who made her television debut on the popular reality show Dance Moms seven years ago, is still very much “mom Jill’s little Kendall.” As a member of the dance team at James Madison University, she looks back on her path and her mother Jill Vertes’ constant support.
In an exclusive interview with E! News, the 21-year-old opened up about her transition from competitive dancing to collegiate dance, highlighting the differences between the two. While Kendall has achieved remarkable success with the James Madison Dukettes, winning their fifth NDA national championship, she acknowledges the distinct challenges of performing at the collegiate level compared to the intense competitiveness of Dance Moms.
Despite the differences, Kendall hasn’t forgotten her training under Abby Lee Miller’s guidance. She fondly recalls her time on the show and the valuable lessons she learned from her coach, both good and bad. Kendall credits Abby for teaching her how to handle pressure and calm her nerves under stressful circumstances, skills that continue to serve her well in her collegiate dance career.
For Kendall, representing her university is equally as important as showing off her dancing abilities as a member of the team. She highlights the value of commitment and collaboration by pointing out how months of preparation are needed for a just two-minute performance.
Even though Kendall has changed and matured since her time as a Dance Mom, she still retains strong ties to the past. She cherishes the friendships she made with her fellow dancers and the memories of her time on the show. Kendall is appreciative of the opportunity Dance Moms gave her to follow her dancing love and make connections with followers worldwide.
Now, as she navigates adulthood and pursues her academic and professional goals, Kendall is excited to show Dance Moms fans her true personality. She hopes that by sharing her experiences and insights, fans will gain a deeper understanding of who she is beyond the confines of reality television.
Through it all, one thing remains constant – Kendall’s unwavering bond with her mother, Jill. Whether cheering her on from the sidelines or offering sage advice, Jill continues to be Kendall’s biggest supporter, embodying the spirit of the ultimate dance mom.
Kendall’s journey serves as a reminder of the strength of desire, tenacity, and the unbreakable link between a mother and her daughter as she continues to make her mark in the dance industry. For many years to come, Kendall Vertes will be able to shine both on and off the dance floor because to her ability and perseverance.
