Ball State University - Orient Yearbook (Muncie, IN)

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The form required for success is demonstrated by Cindy Jo Egan. Of the 100 who started, Egan was one of the talented 18 who endured squad tryouts and made the team. Almost 100 women show the hope and the energy required to survive the rigorous routines required by the pompon team. The candidates prac- ticed together in University Gym before any cuts were made and the Strai n showed. Only half as many returned the following day. Se — TEES eAndrew Johnston Pompon Tryouts 29

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Common goal to meet the test 18 of 140 emerge victorious from Pom tryouts 28+Pompon Tryouts eby Janie Tuttlee A cool, rainy September evening may have dulled the early autumn sky, but it did not dull the nervous energy and enthusiasm of about 140 Ball State women on the first night of pompon tryouts. The women spread themselves out along the edges of University Gym’s floor, stretching and warming themselves up for two hours of strenuous practice. They sat in tight, chattering groups, some telling of be- ing talked into trying out, others tell- ing how they had wanted to all their lives. Echoed giggles bounced like basket- balls around the gymnasium as pig- tailed students nervously awaited the start of this tedious, three-day vigil. Some were short, some tall, some thin, some muscular, but all shared a common interest; being chosen a member of the pompon squad would be a highlight of their college careers. This goal would be realized upon successful completion of the tryout period. Each girl was required to learn a common routine taught during only four hours of group practice, as well as create their own 32-count routine to the Ball State fight song. Two ma- jor requirements seemed easy enough, but the routines were tough, com- plicated and physically tiring. The first day of practice, the can- didates entered the gym stiff with ner- vousness. But, with a little welcoming and lots of pep, the former squad cap- tains loosened them up. The captains explained the duties of the squad, making games and other events look glamorous. Judy Abrahamson, the squad’s coordinator, gave the girls possibilities to consider. Of over 100 candidates, only 18 would be chosen (14 regular members and four alternates). Judging was bas- ed on eye contact, facial expression, enthusiasm and overall appearance. Fast learning counted for first cuts, but creativity was stressed for second cuts. The women were shown an entire routine by two squad members. The speed and complexity of movements was incredibly confusing to those with little knowledge of dance, and somehow, in four hours each girl would have to perfect a routine without individual help. Several of the women had obvious- ly danced before. They moved with snap and finesse. Yet an atmosphere of comraderie prevailed as each woman encouraged others through rough spots in the routine. These women weren't chosen for their Barbie-doll faces or innocent smiles, but for the ability to learn, commit- ment and precision. On the second night's practice, tremendous progress had been made. Although some had dropped out, the remaining group put the pieces together. Abby Lane, Richmond junior, almost dropped out but after talking with friends decided, “What the heck. Maybe I can just concen- trate on smiling and shaking my bootie for the judges.” The 47 women on hand for the se- cond practice had their work cut out for them. Before tryouts began, the re- maining candidates practiced together with impressive precision. Cari Brown, Valparaiso junior, was trying out for the third year. “It all gets a lit- tle monotonous and tiring after a while,” she said, but she couldn't hide the excitement of the evening’s trials. The first phase of tryouts had shown the women in individual routines, but this cut placed the women in groups of four to perform the same routine. The first cut was a tough decision; each competitor per- formed skillfully. “When | first saw the routine we'd have to learn I couldn’t believe it,” Valparaiso freshman Deena Eckert said during a break. “] thought there was no way | could learn it, and a lot of girls dropped out. But when I did it for the judges, it was easy because | could ham it up.” The judges made a small cut of seven. Then the second phase began. Each woman performed her in- dividually designed routine as her private “fan club” cheered her on. The judges made the hard choices after a group consultation. The waiting period for the final cut was over 30 minutes, insuring an increase in nervous anticipation. When the decision finally came, 18 girls were chosen, and emotions, of course were mixed. Eckert didn’t make the squad but said, “I tried my best and that’s all | can do.” Lynn Gilbride, Carmel junior, showed that even previous winners were nervous. Chosen for the second year, she said, “I couldn't believe they called my name, and I had to hear it again before I did.” Amidst squeals and tears, spec- tators’ applause both congratulated and consoled. The mix of emotions split the atmosphere like lightning through the sky. And with that, the pompon squad was born.@

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The No Bar and Grill provides a place where anyone Can go and enjoy local, as well as, regional and national talent. Bands such as The Primates, Atomic But- terfly, and The Chainheads have per- formed in the establish- ment. Rocky Rothrock JON Rans, owner of No Bar and Grill, also is the owner of the Repeat Per- formance which is next door to the No Bar. The No Bar, he claims, offers an alternative to those who want to get away from top 40 music. Bands found the No Bar a place to perform their music before a crowd that was looking to get away from the top 40 beat. Michael Newell of The Singles belts outa tune during one of their many performances in the No Bar. Rocky Rothrock 3 0eno Bar and Grill