Do you have any background in Cheerleading or gymnastics?
I’ve danced all my life and had done a couple of cheerleading classes. Haven’t done gymnastics since I broke my arm aged ten ha! My sister used to cheerlead for the Glasgow Rockettes so she’s always influenced me.
Why did you decide to start Cheerleading on campus?
Strathclyde had never had a cheerleading team before and I noticed there was a gap and wanted to fill it! I also know girls that do cheer at Glasgow University and Stirling University. Lots of my friends were keen so I took the lead and started it with my friend Louise.
How hard did you find it getting affiliated with the University?
The Union were so much help – especially Kwaku the president of Clubs and Societies at the time and lots of people were keen to get involved.
How did you go about getting all your equipment and uniforms?
As we’re not part of the sports union we didn’t have any funding so we have had to raise money and apply for funding grants but we now have uniforms, pom-poms, mats and a sound system woo!
What are your thoughts on your last year with Cheerleading on campus?
It’s been so much fun, lots of hard work but we it pays off when we get things like our uniforms and get to dance at events/have fab socials!
Should Cheerleading have a big role on campus like they do in America?
In America, there is so much school spirit which I think there is a lack of here. Hopefully through cheerleading we can raise this! Maybe one day if the sports Union affiliate us we can have a bigger role!
Can only girls join?
Everyone and anyone are welcome to join! We’re all about having fun and cheerleading regardless of gender/experience.
What advice would you give to some looking to try out Cheerleading?
We don’t actually tryouts because we’re not part of the sports union and can’t compete! We choose girls to dance at events based how many people are needed and whoever is keen!
To get involved please email strathclydewarriors@hotmail.co.uk, on Twitter@strathwarriors or on Facebook ‘Strathclyde Warriors’.