Oct. 22, 2009
ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFAthletics.com) - While halftime at an Orlando Magic game might be a great chance for fans to walk around and grab some refreshments, the Oct. 21 contest featured a performance that spectators definitely did not want to miss. The UCF spirit program took center stage during halftime when the Magic hosted the Indiana Pacers at Amway Arena, and fans who missed out still have a chance to catch the Knights' routine in the future.
"We have had a great relationship with the Magic and have been performing at their games at least once per season for many years," said head coach Linda Gooch. "This year we will return to perform on Jan. 6 just before the national championships.
"Last night's routine is unique because it is a combined performance of about 50 of our cheerleaders and dance team members all performing together. We are using this Magic exhibition as a warm-up for our upcoming performances of this same routine at Spirit Splash and halftime of the UCF vs. UMass basketball game in November.
"It was exciting to hear the response of the Magic fans when we walked out onto the court to set up. There were loud cheers as we rolled the mats out and chants of UCF...UCF. It was a rewarding and fun experience for our team members and they did a great job of entertaining the crowd with their performance."
The Knights remain one of the top spirit programs in the country, and they hope to make their mark once again on the national scene this season. The squad will appear during halftime when the UCF men's basketball team hosts Massachusetts Nov. 13 and at Spirit Splash during homecoming week. Those attending Spirit Splash activities can check out the UCF cheerleaders and Knight Moves when they kick off the festivities near the administration building.
For the latest news on the Knights, log on to UCFAthletics.com - the official site for UCF varsity sports. The site, which also contains ticket and Golden Knights Club donor information, is also the home of UCF's new online apparel store. Also visit UCFPhotos.com, the exclusive fan source for UCF action sports pictures.