The purpose of the Truman State University cheerleader is to promote school spirit by supporting teams during athletic competition, to lead the crowd in cheering for the teams, and to provide entertainment to crowds during pep rallies, parades, and breaks in athletic competitions.

The Squad

Truman State University's 2008-2009 cheerleading squad consists of 16 women.  We practice 2-3 times per week, and meet for organized strength-training 2 times per week at the Campus Recreation Center.  We cheer for all home football, men's basketball, and women's basketball games, as well as one away football game per season and all post-season championship tournaments.  For more information on squad rules and expectations, please refer to our Squad Guidelines and Contract 2007-2008.

History

During the 2001-2002 school year Truman's co-ed cheerleading squad was grounded due to safety and insurance concerns, and eventually dissolved.  In 2004 it returned as an all-female spirit squad, and has been expanding since then to include more advanced tumbling and stunting.  During the 2005-2006 season we gained two male members, and spent two years working on incorporating co-ed stunts again while still maintaining a high level of safety.  Though this year's squad is all women, we continue to scout male talent to add to our group. 

Safety

The Truman State University cheerleading squad is committed to keeping its members safe during stunting.  We operate under the safety guidelines set forth by the NCAA as outlined at www.aacca.org.

Appearances

The Truman State University cheerleading squad regularly participates in the fall Homecoming pep rally and parade, the annual La Plata Soybean Festival parade, Kirksville's Special Olympics, and other appearances throughout the school year.

Fundraising

In July 2005 we began participating in the Annual Bob Carlson Golf Tournament, sponsored by Truman's Men's Basketball program.  Squad members operate the refreshment cart, as well as oversee contests and giveaways at various holes throughout the golf course.

Beginning fall 2006 we offer an annual Future Truman Cheerleader camp day for local grade school children.  Future cheerleaders spend the morning with the squad learning some basic cheers and chants and then are offered the opportunity to cheer along with the squad in that afternoon's home game.