I’m going to tell you a secret. Something that will shock you. Lean in… One of the biggest pole sport organizations in the United States, US Pole Sport Federation (USPSF) is run by Mormons, or Latter-Day Saints (LDS), as I was informed they prefer to be called. Most of their board are LDS and the two winning senior women athletes are/were Mormons: Bryanna (Bree) Fernelius (senior women sport nationals champion, still currently Mormon) and Angela Nelson (senior women art national champion, ex Mormon). It is almost like the LDS want to take over pole dancing!!

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is typically considered one of the more strict Christian religions in America (and the world) with 613 rules. There are very strict rules on presentation (no tattoos, piercings, or long hair on men), consumption (no alcohol, coffee, tea, or smoking), no premarital sex or anything, they should listen only to uplifting music.. The list goes on and on.

The pole dancing community, on the other hand, is often constructed of people who like to defy rules and societal norms. It is an extremely accepting community. Sarah Samuelson, Athlete Chair of USPSF (Mormon) says: “The most wonderful thing about pole is that there is room for everyone: whether it’s those looking for something sensual and sexy, those who want to get a great workout, those who want to compete, or those who just want to have fun, and Mormons fit into any of those groups!”

So, the question on your mind is how did these two populations merge?!? The answer is the same reason why Pole Sport and Art should be part of the Olympics. Pole can be done many ways, like many things, but one of them is certainly as a very demanding and challenging sport. Bree and Angela both come from a gymnastics background. Katrina Wyckoff, the president of USPSF (Mormon and sister to Sarah), was a classically trained ballerina. In the USA pole dancing often attracts athletes and dancers from other disciplines that are not as easily available for adults. We have world champion athletes in the 70s (Greta Pontarelli) and 60s (Shannon Daily).

Bree is a pole dance studio owner. Katrina has started a pole studio franchise! Sarah teaches and coaches pole to all ages. Pole dancing is the way of life for these LDS women. Bree remarks: “Given the nature of my job and sport, I cannot wear my garments to train or to teach, as I need my skin for grip; and I still feel the Holy Spirit's protection.” All these women encourage their fellow church goers to join them in the studio for a fun and challenging workout, and many take them up on it!

So, I think the real question is when will the USA recognize pole sport as a national sport and start supporting these talented athletes. If the LDS gets it, then the rest of the country need not be left behind!

If Mormons Can Embrace Pole Sport, Can’t We All?