NEW ORLEANS - History could be made with this year's Saintsations because one dancer from Maurice is hoping to be the first male dancer to make the team.
Jesse Hernandez has been dancing since he was two-years-old. His mom read an article about one NFL team making history in March by adding two male dancers to their squad, and she told Hernandez that now was his time to shine.
For 51 dancers, the dream of becoming a Saintsation is one step closer to being a reality.
"It's a huge accomplishment because I didn't start my career until the age of 14," said Chancie Gravouilla.
"Dancing for me, it's not a hobby it's all I do, so it's my life," said Jesse Hernandez.
Hernandez and Gravouilla are two of those finalists, friends who'd give anything to make the team.
"I feel great," said Gravouilla. "Extremely nervous, but we're here and doing it and hopefully we'll see everyone in the Superdome in New Orleans."
Auditions started last week, a grueling process that includes interviews, tests and, of course, dancing.
"I'm very nervous but it's an exciting nervousness," said Hernandez. "It actually feels like home to be honest."
However, in the middle of dozens of girls, stood Hernandez, the only male to audition and someone who could make New Orleans history.
"He's breaking boundaries, setting a new path for the male dancers," said Gravouilla.
The Los Angeles Rams are actually the first NFL team to have male dancers take the field. And if Hernandez gets selected, he'd be the first-ever male Saintsation, something he says would be a huge honor.
"It's setting a new path and changing the world and that's what I want to do and hopefully I can open that venue and start that path for other male dancers," Hernandez said.
"I think it's a great opportunity for the Saintsations," said Gravouilla. "And hey, he can dance so why not?"
As the second phase of try-outs begins, these two friends say they'll give it their all, hopeful they'll make the cut.
"No matter what your dream is, go after it," said Gravouilla. "You never know if you'll get a yes or no, you have to try."