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The 2005-06 Huntington University Cheer Squad
University Changes Ripple Across the New Cheer Squad Activities
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THE HUNTINGTON CHEER SQUAD
While the Foresters arguably have the most supportive, enthusiastic, and dedicated fans at the games, there is a group that combines all of these qualities and more every day: the Huntington University Cheer Squad.
Each new basketball season brings several changes and you may have already noticed some for the cheerleaders. Along with every other aspect of the school, the cheerleaders have had to adjust to University status.
CHANGES FOR THIS SEASON
After years of Huntington College, all of the cheers must be overhauled to accommodate Huntington University. Cries for "green and red" have been painted over with "green and black." Even yelling "HC" is no longer an option, as many a fan has belatedly discovered.
Along with everything from signs to cheers to uniforms, the Cheer Squad itself is the most notable change. While recent Forester cheer teams have been comprised of only girls, there are now guys thrown into the mix for this basketball season.
CHEER SQUAD MEMBERS FOR 2005
Officially known as "lifters" the HU squad welcomed four male cheerleaders to the team this year. Shane Feemster, Heath Shook, Jon Birkey, and Jon Reid hope to add a new dimension to the squad as well as the program in general. According to head coach Candace Cooper, "The last time we had lifters was 2002, and it's once again improved the program."
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Bowman, Bethany Lynch, Tiffany Seiter, and Stephanie Stoffel. Two new freshmen girls have been added to the squad this year: Danielle Ronges and Sarah Halsey, and two new coaches have been added as well.
Senior Michelle Bowman and Sophomore Tiffany Seiter are the Cheer Squad Captains this year.
Former Forester Randy LePage is the new lifters coach and helps with stunting. He was once a lifter himself, as well as Coach Cooper's college stunt partner. Amy Cupp is the assistant coach for this year helping with dances, stunting, and cheers.
PRIORITIES IN PERSPECTIVE
For the squad, building the program is not just increasing the numbers and skill levels, but an increase in spirituality as well. Sophomore cheerleader, Bethany Lynch, a ministry major and designated team chaplain, is using what she learns in class to enhance the squad.
She prepares reflections for the group, leads prayers, designates prayer partners, and organizes encouraging letters and e-mails to her teammates and coaches. Coach Cooper says, "This helps us remember our number one priority: it is Christ, and we want to glorify Him with the abilities He has given us."
Next time you see the Cheer Squad on the floor, keep in mind the hard work they do to support the basketball program and the University as a whole. Don't forget to support them as well, and most importantly, cheer and help them support the team!
- by Katie Haifley ('05)
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Head Coach Candace Cooper hopes the lifters create interest this year as they make cheering more fun. "They have a great team chemistry and there is so much trust the girls have with these guys," says Cooper. "The lifters don't get scholarship money; they just show up because they believe in the program."
Not only are the new lifters dedicated, but there's a new level of commitment that has accompanied these new responsibilities.
The entire squad practices everyday with the exception of game days. They cheer for all the home basketball games, men's and women's, as well as many of the away men's games.
In addition to the four new lifters, five girls return: Michelle Bowman, Danielle
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Back Row (L to R): Jon Birkey, Bethany Lynch, Shane Feemster, Danielle Bowman, Jon Reid
Middle: Candace Cooper, Danielle Ronges, Sarah Halsey, Katrina Reid, Tiffany Seiter, Amy Cupp
Front Row: Stephanie Stoffel, Michelle Bowman Not pictured: Heath Shook, Randy LePage
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