University of Arizona - Desert Yearbook (Tucson, AZ)

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Terri Peters gets the crowd motivated with or e of the squads cheers. Photo by Greg Berg. Stand Up Shout There are special fans who are in attendence for every game we are involved in. This group are so influen- cial they can get the rest of the 50,000 fans on their feet and chanting U of A until everyone is hoarse. These dedicated fans are the Varsity Cheers of the U of The squad practiced an estimated four days a week, and worked on their new cheers, as well as perfected the traditional ones. Over 100 people tried out but only thirty were left after first cuts. From there only the top 16 would emerge unscathed as the final squad. Coach Cheryl Rivera, who herself cheered at Florida State for four years, felt that the crowd seemed to respond better to the cheerleaders this year than in previous years. Their cheers and enthusiasm rubbed off on the crowd and helped to create an unstoppable wave of support used to back the team. For those individuals who need a little more experi- ence or practice there was the junior varsity. This squad cheered at all of the women ' s sports (basketball, volleyball, ect.). This helped give the students experi- ence with a U of A squad and taught them some of the U of A cheers in hopes they could try again next year and advance to the Varsity squad. Being a J.V, squad member did not guarantee the students a spot on the Varsity squad next year, but many enjoyed the experi- ence and worked hard. When discussing spirit, one must remember Wilbur and Wilma Wildcat. They had to go through an even rougher tryout and had to perform before a group of judges, who ultimately decide who will wear the crown (or costume) of Wilbur and Wilma. Although the students are not allowed to give their names or talk to people while in costume, they have still managed to gain the respect, admiration, and love of thousands of fans. A pretty fair trade for two un- known and unsung heroes. •Patrick J. Fenimore The cheers play a down of imaginary football to help get the crowd in- volved. Pho- t a by SPENCER 68 CHEERLEADERS

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l» m V.:- The line is the true battlefield of football as John Brandom ' s uniform can at- test as he walks off the field, tired but proud during the ASU game. Photo by GREG BERG. ] FOOTBALL 67

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up in the air! The cheers use many stunts and lifts to help excite the crowd and cheer on the Wildcats. Photo by Greg Berg. 1 Fans CHEERLEADERS 69