University of Minnesota Athletics
CHR: Spirit Squads Rank High!
11/10/2004 12:00:00 AM | Athletics
Goldy the Gopher compiled a two-minute videotape highlighting his community involvement, his appearances within Gopher sports, and his contributions at school activities. He was judged on character development, crowd involvement, community service, and overall impression. Only ten mascots in the entire nation are invited to compete at the College National Mascot Championships. Goldy the Gopher placed second in the rankings falling just short of Sparty from Michigan State, tying with Red from Arkansas State, and rounding out the top four was Smoky from Tennessee.
The Co-Ed cheerleading squads included on their video tape a cheer portion, and a skills demonstration featuring basket tosses, stunts, tumbling and pyramids. Execution and difficulty of skills, communication of enthusiasm, and overall collegiate image determined their rank. Their hard work paid off earning them the top ranking in the Mid America region, placing above Ball State, Central Michigan, and the University of Wisconsin Madison.
The Dance Team sent in a video of a two-minute high-energy routine featuring technical skills and synchronization. They were judged based on communication and projection, choreography, group execution, dance technique and overall effect. The Dance Team is now ranked 1st in the nation, beating out the University of Wisconsin Madison, The University of Memphis, LSU, and Michigan State University.
Each of the teams received a paid bid for their rankings, they receive free transportation, hotel accommodations, and for the cheer team: an automatic bid into the finals. Look for Minnesota to be at the top at the UCA/UDA College National Championships January 14-16 in Orlando, FL!
