UCF student nearly wins reality TV show

As the finale closed Tuesday night, UCF student Tiffany Maher walked away with second place on So You Think You Can Dance.

Maher started her dance career at the age of 3, inspired by her sister to perform.

Maher auditioned for the show in Atlanta, where she wowed the judges to get into Vegas Week. From there, Maher continued to succeed in the competition.

Maher’s determination has led her to where she is today. Her favorite quote, “Don’t let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game,” gave her the inspiration to keep going when times got tough. From facing struggles in Vegas Week to the stress of being on the show, Maher never gave up on herself. Her perseverance led her to the finale.

In the span of the two-hour live finale, Maher danced five times: three times in duets and twice in large group numbers.

All six judges picked their favorite pieces from the season, reminiscing about how each performance impacted them. Judge Debbie Allen picked the contemporary routine Maher and her partner George Lawrence II performed their first week on the program.

Cat Deeley, the host of the show, also picked her favorite performance, choosing the disco number Maher completed with all-star Brandon Bryant.

Maher herself got to pick her favorite routine of the season, a contemporary piece performed with all-star Ade Obayomi. Maher, who had received praise from the judges all season, once again got high acclaims.

After the performances were over, the most anticipated moment of the season began.

Maher and her opponent Eliana Girard stood side by side as they waited for Deeley to announce who America voted to be crowned as America’s Favorite Female Dancer.

After Girard’s name was called, Maher seemingly remained happy for her competitor.

Only 20 dancers have competed in the finale during all nine seasons of the show. Now, Maher will forever be associated with them.

Catch Maher with the rest of the So You Think You Can Dance cast when the Top 10 goes on tour starting in October. Local show locations include Tampa and Hollywood in December. Tickets are on sale now at dance.aeglive.com.