It’s been ten years since Moorpark College last had a cheer team and Kelsey Stuart, Raider Cheer coach, feels it’s about time to bring it back, with tryouts being held this week.

“My husband, Mike Stuart, started coaching football here seven years ago and as each year has gone by, our plans for engaging students in Raider spirit has grown to such a passionate endeavor that we would have stopped at nothing,” said Stuart.

Last year, the college ran a Spirit Competition where each of the five home football games hosted a local high school cheer squad and band. The high schools competed each game to see who could raise the most spirit and it was a successful campaign for the college, said Stuart.

“Having cheerleaders on the sidelines or the Raider football team was nothing short of inspirational,” said Stuart. “After the season, [my husband and I] both knew we wanted a permanent cheer program instated as soon as possible so we could share that professional motivation and encouragement with all Raider athletics.”

As her husband was hired as the head football coach for the Moorpark Raiders, Stuart felt it was the perfect time to start rallying a Raider Cheer team.

“My husband and I are passionate about encouraging student life at Moorpark College and promoting Raider spirit,” said Stuart. “Moorpark is an amazing college with a lot to offer and deserves no less than an amazing cheer team.”

The Raider Cheer Team will be a huge component of student life on campus, said Stuart. The cheerleaders will be expected to wear their uniforms on game days and encourage support for the Associated Students organization with Club Rush and other activities.

“It is our hope that the Raider Cheer Team will bring a contagious spirit to the campus life,” said Stuart.

Tryouts will be held on June 14 and 16 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Dance Studio adjacent to the athletic offices. If students are interested, please contact Coach Stuart at [email protected] or by phone at 805.906.1151 first in order to get a head count.

“As for tryouts, past experience with cheering would be helpful, but any student is welcome to tryout!” said Stuart. “Anyone willing to work hard will have a shot!”

Required Material for Tryouts:

Attire: Black pants/shorts and a white top

Judges will look for the following including technique, ability, and spirit

3 Jumps: Herkie, Pike and Toe Touch

30-second dance routine (free style)

Cheer

“This school deserves a standout cheer team that rallies its students and community to support its athletics, and that is what we are going to do,” said Stuart.