Meet Kelsey
Owner & Head Coach, FINNish Strong Academy
Head Coach, New Orleans Pelicans Dance Team (PelSquad)
Kelsey was born and raised in Pompton Plains, New Jersey, where her love for athletics and performance began early. A competitive athlete, she served as captain of both her track and field hockey teams, earning 1st Team All-State Honors and setting the New Jersey state record for most goals scored. Alongside her athletic career, Kelsey was also a competitive dancer, earning numerous overall high-score awards and developing the discipline and artistry that continue to define her today.
Kelsey moved to Louisiana to attend Louisiana State University, where she earned a degree in Business Management while cheering and serving as a captain as an NFL Cheerleader for the New Orleans Saints for four seasons. Her professional dance career continued courtside as a captain for the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans Dance Team, where she is now honored to serve as Head Coach.
Throughout her career, Kelsey has performed for internationally recognized artists and entertainers, including Beyoncé, the Jonas Brothers, Lil Wayne, Mannie Fresh, and Choppa (“Choppa Style”). As a choreographer, she has created and staged performances for Choppa (“Choppa Style”). Her versatility both as a performer, choreographer, and coach has made her a respected figure in the dance industry.
Beyond performing, Kelsey is a dedicated coach who has worked with middle school, high school, and collegiate teams—including the LSU Golden Girls—as well as professional organizations such as the Saints Cheer Krewe and the PelSquad.
With her combined background in athletics, dance, and performance coaching, Kelsey brings a unique, holistic approach to her training. As a strength and mindset coach, she focuses on developing not only physical power and technique but also mental resilience and confidence—helping every athlete, dancer, and performer shine from the inside out.
Our Vision
At FINNISH STRONG, our mission is to help every student build confidence, develop discipline, and truly enjoy the process of becoming their best self. We emphasize proper technique, safety, consistency, and FUN—creating an environment where hard work and joy go hand in hand.
Each class focuses on teaching correct form and body awareness while encouraging effort, accountability, and a positive attitude. We believe the lessons learned in the studio go far beyond dance, instilling a work ethic, mindset, and confidence that transcend into every part of life.
Because when we love what we do and give our best each day, we become not only stronger performers, but stronger people.