Charlotte 49ers head football coach Will Healy is among the local celebrities who are participating in Saturday's Dancing with the Stars Charlotte Gala, which will raise funds for the Charlotte Ballet and six area charitable organizations.
Healy and his dance partner, Raven Barkley, a member of the Charlotte Ballet for five seasons, are raising money for UNC Charlotte student mental health initiatives. The two have been practicing their routine in preparation for Saturday's event.
The People’s Choice Award will be presented to the “star pair” who raise the most funds. Cast a vote by making a donation, which is split 50/50 with the Charlotte Ballet and the dancers’ charities.
"It's been awesome. It's been an incredible experience," Healy said. "We're glad to be able to help the ballet, and what we are doing it for is the mental health and wellness programs for our student-athletes and our University, which is a big deal to me. We're making a difference."
Healy took to the dance floor during the 2019 football season, when he opened "Club Lit" in the Charlotte 49ers locker room after victories, though he doesn't claim dancing prowess.
"I can't move like they can move" Healy said of his players. "We'll be comfortable being uncomfortable, and we're going to go win the thing."