Under first year Head Coach Elizabeth Appenzeller, The Pride cheerleading team began its support of Pride athletics back in August.

In addition to regular practices, the team also participated in cardiovascular training, weight training and received tumbling lessons—activities that are ongoing this Spring. This season marked the first year that the Pride cheerleaders were eligible for performance scholarships.

The team cheered at football and basketball games and attended several other fall sports home games. The squad also performed throughout the year at pep rallies and at midnight madness. In the Fall, The Pride hosted its first ever cheerleading alumni brunch during homecoming weekend.

The squad also participated in several community service projects, including: Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Banquet; Angel Tree; Shots for Tots; Village 401 Day and the USA South Cans Across the Conference food drive.

The cheerleaders were active in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and the Student-Athlete Mentor (SAM) Program—similar to other Pride teams.

Coach Appenzeller will miss graduating senior captain Kara Jones, but the program has a strong foundation for the future as they add spirit and vitality to campus events.