Fresno State Athletics
Bulldog Spirit Starts Here
8/28/2007 12:00:00 AM | General
Aug. 28, 2007
FRESNO, Calif. - Fans are not the only ones feeling a rush when Davide Ghilarducci sprints from the south end zone hoisting the enormous Bulldog flag just before kickoff.
"It's an awesome feeling for me," Ghilarducci said. "When I hear those fans roar, I'm just as pumped-up as they are!"
The sirens blare and the 'Dogs come charging through the Doghouse tunnel, led by Ghilarducci, a four-year veteran of Fresno State's spirit squad, who lifts the bright-red banner high in the air. It's a signal to all in attendance that game-time is near.
"When I stepped out onto the football field four years ago, I was blown away," Ghilarducci said. "Now I've become accustomed to being in front of 40,000 people, but it's still a thrill every time we perform."
Ghilarducci is one of 26 other students who are members of the spirit squad. Head coach Chelley Uyeno took over duties leading the team in February and said more than 75 students attended tryouts last spring. Uyeno selected those who had strong individual dancing and jumping skills as well as good all-around athletic ability.
Uyeno hopes to raise the level of criteria as each season comes around. Uyeno wants to challenge her team members to grow and improve in two areas: athletic ability and showmanship.
The most important aspect of cheerleading is to involve the fans with the game. As in each sport, the crowd can give the home team an emotional boost. Therefore, the cheer squad plays an important role in raising the level of school spirit and maintaining an enthusiastic attitude during competition.
"We want spectators to admire us," Uyeno said. "We want our fans to say, 'Wow! They're having a great time. I'd love to be a part of something like that.'
"Most importantly we're ambassadors of each sport here. When fans recognize us they always associate cheerleaders with football and basketball or with Fresno State athletics in general."
Being a member of the spirit squad does not just include participation at sporting events. These students attend marketing and promotional events and perform community service while navigating through the rigors of school, family life and work. Cheerleading is a year-around activity.
"They learn that nothing can be done alone and you can't win by yourself," Uyeno said. "Working together as a cohesive unit to accomplish goals teaches everyone about life.
"Being a member of this team gives each individual a broad spectrum. But the most important thing these young men and women can take away from cheerleading is the attribute of confidence. They learn to perform in front of many people, they're in the public eye and they learn to take initiative."
Junior Courtney Rhodes is participating in cheer for the first time. She has 14 years of experience in gymnastics, but has never been part of a spirit squad.
"It's an awesome experience for me," Rhodes said. "I've always wanted to do this and I'm grateful for the opportunity to be here now. I enjoy being in front of a crowd, so I'm looking forward to the challenge."
