The West Virginia University (WVU) cheerleading squad is a beloved and integral part of the school's athletic programs. As one of the most spirited and dedicated teams in the country, the Mountaineer cheerleaders have been thrilling fans for decades with their high-energy performances, precision stunts, and infectious enthusiasm.
WVU's cheerleading program has a rich history, dating back to the 1940s. Over the years, the squad has evolved to become one of the most respected and accomplished in the nation. With a strong focus on safety, teamwork, and school spirit, the Mountaineer cheerleaders are more than just a sideline attraction – they're an essential part of the WVU game-day experience.
History of WVU Cheerleading
The WVU cheerleading program has its roots in the 1940s, when a small group of students began cheering on the Mountaineer football team. Over the years, the squad has grown in size and sophistication, with the addition of new stunts, tumbling passes, and choreographed routines. Today, the Mountaineer cheerleaders are a beloved and integral part of the WVU athletic department, performing at football, basketball, and volleyball games, as well as participating in national competitions.
Early Years (1940s-1960s)
In the early years of WVU cheerleading, the squad was comprised of a small group of students who cheered on the football team with simple chants and megaphones. As the program grew in popularity, the squad began to perform more complex stunts and routines, including tumbling passes and pyramid formations.
Modern Era (1970s-Present)
In the 1970s, the WVU cheerleading program underwent a significant transformation, with the introduction of new stunts, tumbling passes, and choreographed routines. The squad began to compete at the national level, participating in events such as the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) College Cheerleading Championship.
Today, the Mountaineer cheerleaders are a highly respected and accomplished team, known for their high-energy performances, precision stunts, and infectious enthusiasm. With a strong focus on safety, teamwork, and school spirit, the WVU cheerleading program continues to thrive, entertaining fans and inspiring young athletes across the country.
Tryouts and Selection Process
The WVU cheerleading squad is selected through a rigorous tryout process, which typically takes place in the spring semester. Candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements, including a minimum GPA and completion of a physical examination.
The tryout process typically consists of several rounds, including:
- Round 1: Candidates perform a series of fundamental skills, such as tumbling passes, jumps, and stunting.
- Round 2: Candidates participate in a mock game-day scenario, performing choreographed routines and stunts.
- Round 3: Candidates are interviewed by the coaching staff, who assess their leadership skills, teamwork, and overall fit with the program.
Candidates Selected
After the tryout process is complete, the coaching staff selects the top candidates to join the squad. The selected athletes are then invited to participate in a mandatory training camp, where they learn the squad's choreographed routines and stunts.
Game-Day Experience
The WVU cheerleading squad is an integral part of the game-day experience, performing at football, basketball, and volleyball games. The squad's high-energy performances, precision stunts, and infectious enthusiasm help to energize the crowd and create a lively atmosphere.
Pre-Game Warm-Up
Before each game, the squad performs a pre-game warm-up, which includes a series of stretches, jumps, and tumbling passes. This warm-up helps to prepare the athletes for the physical demands of the game-day performance.
Halftime Routine
During halftime, the squad performs a choreographed routine, which typically includes stunts, tumbling passes, and jumps. This routine is designed to entertain the crowd and showcase the squad's skills.
Competitions and Awards
The WVU cheerleading squad participates in several national competitions each year, including the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) College Cheerleading Championship. The squad has won numerous awards and accolades, including several national championships.
UCA College Cheerleading Championship
The UCA College Cheerleading Championship is one of the most prestigious competitions in the country, featuring top college cheerleading squads from across the nation. The WVU squad has won several national championships at this event, including titles in 2013 and 2015.
Conclusion
The West Virginia University cheerleading squad is a beloved and integral part of the school's athletic programs. With a rich history, a strong focus on safety and teamwork, and a commitment to excellence, the Mountaineer cheerleaders continue to thrill fans and inspire young athletes across the country.
Get Involved
If you're interested in learning more about the WVU cheerleading program or would like to get involved, please visit the squad's website or social media pages.
What is the WVU cheerleading squad?
+The WVU cheerleading squad is a group of student-athletes who perform at university sporting events, including football, basketball, and volleyball games.
How do I try out for the WVU cheerleading squad?
+To try out for the WVU cheerleading squad, candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements, including a minimum GPA and completion of a physical examination. The tryout process typically takes place in the spring semester.
What competitions does the WVU cheerleading squad participate in?
+The WVU cheerleading squad participates in several national competitions each year, including the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) College Cheerleading Championship.