May 10, 2010
Orlando, Fla. (UCFAthletics.com) - Tryouts were held this past weekend for the 2010-11 UCF cheerleading team, and a total of 14 women and 16 men were selected for next year's squad including 14 new members. Team members were evaluated on tumbling and partner stunting skills as well as a routine to the UCF Fight Song. The process also included an interview portion as well as an evaluation of each candidate's overall athleticism and ability to entertain the UCF Crowd.
Although the team is made up of 23 athletes from Florida, candidates came from all parts of the U.S. to try and earn a position on the team.
"There is no question that our two national championships and the television exposure that we received through the television show Cheerleader U have garnered the attention of recruits nationally," said head coach Linda Gooch. "That being said, I do believe however that our team will always be dominated by the talent that we have coming out of our high schools right here in the state of Florida."
In addition to the Florida athletes, this year's team members are from Washington, Colorado, New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Tennessee and Ohio. It also consists of three seniors, 10 juniors, seven sophomores and 10 freshmen.
Meet some of this year's cheer and dance team members at the "Coach's Caravan" on Saturday, May 22, from noon to 2 p.m. on Park Avenue in Winter Park.
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, and become a follower of the Knights at Twitter.com.