The Lamar University Spirit Team is thinking big as it prepares for the “Spirit Team Showdown” Saturday, Feb. 6, on the Lamar campus. Besides gaining new skills and polishing their talents, participants will take the spotlight at the Cardinal men’s basketball game.
Clinic activities for first-graders through high-school seniors begin at 10 a.m. and continue until 4 p.m. in the Group Fitness Studio of the Sheila Umphrey Recreational Sports Center.
The “Showdown” will divide students by grades, according to this schedule: first- through fifth-graders, 10 a.m. to noon; sixth- through eighth-graders, noon to 2 p.m.; and ninth- through 12th-graders, 2 to 4 p.m.
“This will be a huge fund-raiser, offering a cheer and dance clinic,” said Brenda Griner, the team’s artistic director. “And, what’s more, participants will learn a routine or cheer – and display their newly honed talents when they perform at the men’s basketball game that night in the Montagne Center.”
There’s even more good news: “Showdown” participants will be admitted to the game without charge with their free clinic T-shirts. Their parents may call the Montagne Center box office, (409) 880-1715, to purchase tickets.
“Our clinic ‘stars’ will have the opportunity for photos and autographs with the Big Red mascot and Spirit Team members – so be sure and bring your cameras,” Griner said.
The Cardinals will take on the Lumberjacks of Colonels of Stephen F. Austin State University in the 7:05 p.m. Montagne match-up.
Cost of the “Spirit Team Showdown” clinic is $35, payable by cash, check or money order to the Lamar University Spirit Team. Parents or guardians must accompany their children at the clinic and at the game if those students are in first through ninth grades.
Additional information is available from Griner at bggriner@my.lamar.edu.
The Spirit Team is expanding its ranks in preparation for the return of football this fall. The group is an elite Division I dance team that performs at all home basketball games as well as various community events.
