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Marshall Moore, Burlington, runs the HCC flag on to the court at the women’s basketball game on Nov. 15, 2013. The Lady Dragons followed behind him at the beginning of the game. Macie Rotha, Wichita, show of her scorpion move as Bryant Patry, Salina, holds her up. They practiced in the small gym at the Sports Arena before each basketball game.
Let’s go Dragons, let’s go! This was a familiar phrase heard at football and basketball games at Hutchinson Community College. The cheerleaders were responsible for pumping up the HCC athletes as well as getting the crowd started. When it comes to Marshall Moore, Burlington, getting ready to cheer for a game is a good thing. Marshall said, “Throwing a few stunts in the air and messing around before a game pumps me up.” The team included cheerleaders as well as male athletes called yell leaders. These athletes were in attendance close to court or field, rain or shine. Macie Rotha, Wichita, said, “I have been a cheerleader for 12 years so I wanted to continue because I love cheer.” Becoming a part of a team like the cheerleaders is similar to joining another family. Kayla Meitter, Hutchinson, said, “The best part about being on the squad is the close and trusting relationships you build. You put all of your time into making yourself and the squad better, follow your heart and never give up. I had to work really hard to be where I am today, you don’t have to be naturally talented just got for it.”
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