Badgering: DJ Shawna
March 28, 2018 | General News
Now a prominent local DJ, former Badger Shawna Nicols will host the Crazylegs Classic post-race celebration April 28
BY CHASE LANIER
UW Digital/Social Media Assistant
MADISON, Wis. — The Badgers are counting down the days until everyone's favorite race — the Crazylegs Classic! Now just one month away on Saturday, April 28, this year's Crazylegs Classic will be bringing back a familiar face to Madison for post-race celebrations. Shawna Nicols, aka DJ Shawna, is a former Wisconsin women's basketball player who now uses her platform as a former athlete to inspire others and send a positive message through her music. Nichols played for the Badgers from 2001-03 before injuries cut short her UW career. Currently residing in Milwaukee, she works as a DJ for major events including games for the Bucks, Brewers, Marquette University and the upcoming NCAA Women's Basketball Final Four this weekend. A dynamic entrepreneur, she also started a clothing line, #DareToBe, that inspires others to be their best self and has recently written a book showcasing Milwaukee.
DJ Shawna recently shared some insight on her background, favorite songs and what to look forward to at this year's Crazylegs Classic. Use the code DJSHAWNA to save $5 on registration to run or walk this year!
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What do you enjoy about being a professional DJ?
I really enjoy being my own boss. I love waking up every day and working toward goals and adventures that I never thought would be possible and now they're within reach. When events come around, I love being part of an experience that will be memorable for everyone involved. I have come to learn that life is about those moments and memories and being a DJ allows me to be a part of that.
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Register today! CrazylegsClassic.com
What's special about DJing at sporting events?
As a former athlete, being a professional DJ for sporting events is something I cherish more than I know how to put into words. Music has always been part of my world, especially as a basketball player. I believe my experience at Wisconsin and professionally overseas has given me a different way to approach DJing sporting events. I'm a sports fan and I'll always be an athlete, which helps me find the balance between when to play for the athletes versus when to play for the fans. Again, looking at the event from an experience for everyone to enjoy.
Join Bucky and tons of other Badger fans at this year's #UWCrazylegsClassic! Register now at http://www.crazylegsclassic.com/
— Wisconsin Badgers (@UWBadgers) February 13, 2018
What is one of your favorite memories from UW?
My freshman year and season was definitely one to remember. It's difficult to pick just one favorite memory because, for me, it's great to talk about wins and losses. What makes me smile huge are those little moments and memories you can't script. Those times on the team bus, in the locker room, at the hotel, in the weight room, at training table, and even at practices that will forever hold such a special place in my heart. I am so incredibly proud and lucky to be part of the Badgers family and I have (former women's basketball head coach) Jane Albright to thank for seeing something in me, for believing in me (even to this day) and for giving me a chance.
What do you miss about being a UW student-athlete?
This is such a bittersweet question. Hindsight is always 20/20, isn't it? I miss playing basketball competitively. I miss preseason (I must be absolutely crazy to say that!), but I loved the challenge. I loved seeing how far not only I could push myself, but how far we could push as a team. I miss the home game days and the Kohl Center. I miss my teammates. I miss going to class and having to balance it all. Madison holds such a special place in my heart, and the four years that I was able to spend there helped shape me into the person I am today.
Why are you excited to DJ the Crazylegs Classic?
I remember being on campus during the Crazylegs Classic and it was such an amazing atmosphere. It's such an honor to be invited as part of that infectious energy for 2018. Not to mention, having the opportunity to DJ in Camp Randall Stadium is absolutely surreal. I'm also thrilled that I won't have to run the upper decks of the stadium in order for this to happen!
What should our fans and runners expect when they cross the finish line?
Expect to not only feel accomplished, but also have a great time! I promise to help you keep moving your legs to ensure that lactic acid doesn't settle. I want every single person in that stadium to go home talking about how incredible the energy in Camp Randall was for Crazylegs 2018!
