.png)
The Life of a
UD Cheerleader
Publisher & Editor: Horace Dozier Sr.
Phone: +1.9372919620
Dayton Website:
School, games, pep rallies, cheers, chants, and stunts. These are the cornerstones of a University of Dayton cheerleader, right? While these activities do carry and undeniable significance, a UD cheerleader’s life goes far beyond what most people see. Logan Cobbs is a Political Science major, Psychology minor, and a three-year University of Dayton cheerleader. Despite her busy schedule as a Dayton cheerleader, she remains committed to academics, carrying a 3.5 GPA and campus activities; participating in Dayton Civic Scholars, Marianist Leadership Scholars, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and work study, in the Political Science Department. Don’t be alarmed. This is not a typical day, but rather an example of how demanding her life as a University of Dayton cheerleader can be at times.
Logan recalls tryouts very vividly - an entire weekend of clinics, stunting, and the pressure of coming face-to-face with talent from all over the country. The main concentration focused on game preparation, continuing university traditions and how to make alumni proud. This was a tall order at the time, as a young Freshman finding her way. After a nail-biting 48 hours, the results were in. “I made it!” she said. This would be the start of a journey like no other.
At the University of Dayton, cheerleaders have a weekly schedule consisting of 6:00 p.m. workouts on Mondays and Wednesdays, with two-hour practices on Tuesdays and Thursdays, as well as Saturday football games, sometimes up to two men’s basketball games, and for some cheerleaders, women’s games. On any given week, cheer can demand up to 15 hours or more. This may not seem like a lot, but when thrown in the mix with school, work, campus activities, and social life, it can become a balancing act. Logan attributes proactivity and prioritization as crucial skills to her success as a University of Dayton cheerleader. “After all, we are in college first and foremost education.”
She recalls her most memorable cheerleading moment, during her first men’s game as a Dayton cheerleader. Thousands of spirited fans, chanting the battle cry known to all “Flyer Faithful’s.” Gooooo Dayton Flyers! It was at that moment that she knew the University of Dayton was home and was proud to be a University of Dayton cheerleader. After all, her teammates would be family for the next four years. What Logan loves most about the cheer program is the comradery I have with my teammates. Although half of their team cheers for the men’s basketball team and the other half cheers for the women’s, they’re all one team. Logan explains, “We push each other to do our best and constantly excel both academically and on the court. As if seeing each other everyday throughout the week isn't enough, we’re constantly with one another on the weekends, as well. The love that we have for our school and one another is what makes this program so great!” “Regardless of the demands, all of the hard work brings us closer as a team and makes me grow as a person. After putting in countless hours and working your absolute hardest, there’s no better feeling than going out there, putting all of your hard work to the test, and representing your school.” I often get the question, “what does it feel like to be lifted over ten feet in the air, in front of thousands of people?” My answer, “It’s a feeling like no other!” Admittedly, it was a bit scary at first and took weeks before I was fully comfortable. However, when you form a bond with your stunting partner, you’re never afraid to fall, because you know that they’ll catch you. A little prayer never hurts either.
As a senior in the fall of 2018, Logan’s cheerleading career is sadly nearing the end. She is currently preparing for tryouts once again. This will be her final try out and season as a University of Dayton cheerleader. Recently accepted into the BA2MPA program at The University of Dayton, Logan will begin taking masters courses in conjunction with her final undergraduate classes, as she pursues her Masters in Public Administration. As a “Flyer Faithful,” Logan will always keep Dayton cheer in her heart and feels blessed to be part of such a rewarding program. Go Flyers!
The University of Dayton cheerleading program, guided by Coach Kristina Sucher, exemplifies the qualities of integrity and excellence that have become synonymous with the university as an educational institution. The program strives to maintain a high level of performance and image in all aspects of its operations. These characteristics are expected at all times by every Flyer cheerleader. Members of the cheer team serve as ambassadors for the university while at home and on the road. They help to promote school pride, engender school spirit, enhance morale, and encourage school participation at all levels. The cheer preparation, training, and game duties can be demanding; however, members are expected to not only attend regularly scheduled practices and games, but summer camp and all other scheduled activities as well. Practice is not taken lightly. Team practices are held two days a week and members work out with the strength and conditioning coach two days a week as well. The UD cheerleaders cheer for all home football games and men's and women's basketball games. The team also cheers at basketball post-season tournament play. The program consists of co-ed cheerleaders and all-girl stunt groups. Members of the UD cheer team are well-rounded and have, or make time for, outside interests. Some members have jobs and others are active in sorority and fraternity or other organizations on campus. Community involvement and volunteer services are expected of members in order to help build character, broaden knowledge, and instill the importance of service to others. Regardless of the demand created by being a member of the team and having other campus involvements, all members of the UD cheer team must maintain a 2.5 or better cumulative grade point average.