25/08/2026
Today is a day of mixed emotions. 💙
It's a sad farewell, mixed with a huge bucket of excitement, as Ellie McKenzie leaves Warriors to begin an exciting new chapter at Manchester University.
I've known Ellie for 11 years. She first walked through the doors as a child, and over the years I've had the privilege of watching her grow into the incredible young woman she is today. From teaching her, to training together and even standing side by side to grade.
Ellie has also been an invaluable member of my instructor team, inspiring and teaching children as young as four years old. Her commitment, reliability, time management and natural ability to connect with children have always been exceptional. Whenever a challenge or pressure came her way, she stepped up, embraced it and conquered it.
Over the last two years alone, she has somehow balanced work, college, dance competitions, dance performances and all the other pressures that come with being a teenager, yet never once stopped giving back to our local community or supporting me and the Warriors family.
On a personal level, I will miss Ellie enormously. For over a decade I've watched her journey unfold from a young girl into a kind, compassionate and ambitious young woman with a clear vision for her future. Professionally, Infinity Wellbeing & Coaching has been incredibly lucky to have someone so dedicated, caring and dependable representing us.
I know so many of the children she has taught through Warriors, and our previous programmes, will remember her for the kindness, patience and encouragement she showed them. She has made a lasting difference to so many young lives.
As Ellie leaves her roots to pursue even greater things, I couldn't be prouder. I genuinely can't wait to see where this next chapter takes her.
Ellie, thank you. Thank you for your loyalty, your hard work, your friendship and for everything you have given over the past 11 years. It has never gone unnoticed and it will never be forgotten.
You will always be one of my adopted daughters, and I already look forward to visiting you in Manchester... especially if it involves coming to watch one of your shows! 💙
Good luck, Ellie. Manchester is incredibly lucky to have you, and I know this is only the beginning of an amazing journey. We are all so proud of you. 💙
