The Student News Site of Macalester College

The Mac Weekly

The Student News Site of Macalester College

The Mac Weekly

The Student News Site of Macalester College

The Mac Weekly

Nicholas G. Honan is just letting the music move him

By Olivia Provan and Reilly Pruitt

Although you may not always spot him immediately around campus, Nicholas Gale Honan can often be seen dancing his way from football practice to the MCSG meetings. Growing up in a house with four sisters and a brother, “Honan,” as friends know him, learned he could best capitalize on his talent through perfecting his moves both on and off the field. We sat down with Mr. Honan to discuss the unknown power of MCSG, the ever-improving football team, and his most memorable (and even unspeakable moments) at Macalester.Tell us a little about your family. What was it like growing up Honan?

Well, it’s a big family; I have 5 siblings. Three sisters.I mean four sisters–I lose track of them sometimes–and a brother. We’re all very special people. The Honan family is very talented. Everyone of my family members has potential to be famous on a national if not international level.

What is your special talent?

I was blessed with athletic abilities. Some of my other siblings were as well. My brother and I are both exceptional dancers and we trade styles and exchange moves.

Do you have a favorite type of dance?

Irish dancing is definitely my favorite. Ira [Liston ’08] and I spent some time trying to learn the basic moves last year. It was actually really difficult. Mostly though, I just feel the music and move. It’s beautiful, actually. I guess that’s how I would describe my dancing style – beautiful.

Are there any bands or artists that you particularly like to dance to?

A lot of Motown, Stevie Wonder really gets my juices flowing. The Temptations, Al Green. Sometimes the music takes over and whatever happens happens. Often other people will join me or they just get in my way. But if they can keep up they’re welcome to stay.

When did you discover you were such a good dancer?

I guess I first realized as a home schooler. My siblings and I spent a lot of time learning creatively. At one point we were practicing yoga as part of our curriculum.

Did you enjoy being home schooled?

It was a lot of fun. My mom was opposed to how schools were structured and the ways that time was spent learning. We were only really in school for 3 to 4 hours a day, and left to our own devices for the rest of the time.

You started at Macalester playing soccer, right?

Well, despite my illustrious career with JV soccer, I felt my talents would be better utilized on the football team. Maybe if people start coming to our games I’d be able to show off my skills.

What role do you feel you have on the football team?

I have a very unique role on the team. If anything I exemplify someone who didn’t have a lengthy career in football but who could still come in and compete. Last year was a good year for me, and despite the fact that we’ve struggled record-wise, everyone on that team knows that we’ve come a long way. People should definitely come watch us.

Do you have any other extra-curriculars?

I’m a student representative for the senior class with MCSG [Macalester College Student Government].

What do you think the role of MCSG is on campus?

I think MCSG holds a lot more sway in the school than people think. If the student body understood that better we could be a lot more productive. As a senior, I’ve taken on a much more assertive role in the legislative process. I’d encourage others to join. It’s not hard, I ran unopposed and won.

Are there any pertinent issues that you are trying to address as a representative?

Yes, in the school’s constitution inter-racial dating is not allowed. I have crushes on several international students but it’s illegal to act on them.

What constitutes a good Friday night for you in the Macalester social scene?

During football season it’s pretty low key. I spend a lot of time with my close friends and comrades. We simply enjoy each other’s company. We go down to the river, look at stars.

What about out of season or on a Saturday night?

Oh, well that’s a different story. I’m usually very friendly. I won’t go into many details, but I make a lot of friends. Whatever memories I do wake up with are fond ones.

How would you like to be remembered after graduation?

Despite the fact that there’s plenty of evidence to the contrary, I’d like people to remember me as a good and honest person. And I’d especially like to be remembered as someone who has an influence on other student athletes. A motivation for people to get involved in other aspects of the Macalester life. I think most athletes are hesitant to get involved in other things. Most athletic coaches forget that this is a very tough school academically. There is too much expected. Kids come here for academics, not necessarily for the sports. That’s what will matter after graduation.

We have one final question for you: what’s the deal with the white cardigan?

The white cardigan – it’s all business. I break it out when I know a lot of work needs to be done in a short amount of time. It’s not for casual reading or hanging with the boys.

We asked a few of Honon’s friends to say a few words about him.

Nick Hanks: He’s a loyal and crazy mother f*****.

Chris Lowery: I don’t think there is anything I would feel comfortable saying about Nick for this story…except he is a sexy bitch.

Matt Malmberg: (Can’t tear himself away from the football game to comment.)

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    Fiona McDonaldSep 8, 2019 at 5:01 pm

    Wow! this cartoon type YouTube video I have seen when I was in primary level and now I am in academy and watching that once more at this place.

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