Kansas State Spirit Groups
May 21, 2004 | General
CHEER SQUAD
For more than a decade K-State's cheer squad has been ranked as one of the top college squads in the nation. The team is known for its dedication to raising spirit for Wildcat athletics.
An equal number of males and females are selected each year for the varsity and junior varsity squads. Full-time K-State students, transfer students, and high school seniors who plan to attend K-State in the fall are eligible to try out. A 2.0 GPA must be maintained to remain on the squad.
Tryouts are held every April and also in September if positions are available. All tryout material is taught prior to the tryouts. Candidates are judged on their performance of the fight song, partner stunts, chants, and gymnastic ability. Females are also evaluated on a dance routine.
Cheerleading and gymnastic experience is highly recommended, but not required. Athletic ability; a good sense of rhythm, balance, and strength; and a willingness to learn are the main qualifications.
For more information, contact:
Al Enlow
Bramlage Coliseum
1800
(785) 532-7289
aenlow@k-state.edu
CLASSY CATS
The 24 members that make up the Classy Cats are the K-State Marching Band's dance team and are an important part of the band. The Classy Cats perform at all home football games (pre-game, half-time, and sideline cheers). The squad also divides into smaller squads to perform at home volleyball and basketball games.
Auditions for the Classy Cats are held in the spring, and students are required to demonstrate skills in all types of dance. Prior knowledge of splits, leaps, pirouettes, toe touches, and jumps are recommended as well as the ability to learn routines quickly.
For more information, contact:
Dr. Frank Tracz
Director of Bands
Kansas State University
226 McCain Auditorium
785-532-3816
ftracz@ksu.edu
COLOR GUARD
Comprised of approximately 24 students a year, the K-State color guard performs at all marching band functions. A variety of show styles are utilized as well as various performance equipment.
Auditions are held in the spring. Prior knowledge of color guard skillsbasic spins and positions--and marching fundamentals are recommended.
For more information, contact:
Dr. Frank Tracz
Director of Bands
Kansas State University
226 McCain Auditorium
Manhattan, KS 66506-4702
785-532-3816
ftracz@ksu.edu
FEATURE TWIRLERS
Feature twirlers are a select unit of the K-State marching band. Often in the spotlight, the twirlers take part in all activities with the band. They are responsible for creating their own routines and for coordinating their field movements.
Audition guidelines consist of a three- to five-minute routine to the music of your choice, a routine to the K-State fight song, and a demonstration of your marching stride while twirling. Auditions are held in the spring.
For more information, contact:
Dr. Frank Tracz
Director of Bands
Kansas State University
226 McCain Auditorium
Manhattan, KS 66506-4702
785-532-3816
ftracz@ksu.edu
MARCHING BAND
The Pride of Wildcat Land Marching Band consists of more than 250 students from every department and major on campus. The nationally renowned band performs at all home games and one Kansas City Chiefs game each year and has attended bowl games in support of the team.
High school band experience is a prerequisite, as is a willingness to work and a desire to have fun. You will experience lasting friendships, spirit, and tremendous pride as a member of the K-State marching band.
For more information, contact:
Dr. Frank Tracz
Director of Bands
Kansas State University
226 McCain Auditorium
Manhattan, KS 66506-4702
785-532-3816
ftracz@ksu.edu
WILLIE THE WILDCAT
Everyone knows Willie the Wildcat. Willie has been recognized as one of the top college mascots both locally and nationally. He is on hand for all of K-State's home football and basketball games and attends numerous special events on campus, in the community, and throughout the state.
Willie is selected based on the ability to entertain and create enthusiasm for K-State, especially at athletic events. Mascot tryouts are held in the spring in conjunction with cheer squad tryouts and include a clinic prior to the day of tryouts. A varsity and a junior varsity Willie the Wildcat are selected.
Candidates are judged on a comedy skit of their own creation. The skit can show crowd leadership skills, personality, humor, and creativity. No prior experience is required, just the desire to entertain Wildcat fans of all ages.
For more information, contact:
Al Enlow
Bramlage Coliseum
1800
(785) 532-7289
ksupromo@k-state.edu
WILLIE APPEARANCE INFO
Along with the link to the request form, please include the following info:
To submit a request for a Willie the Wildcat, K-State Cheer Squad, or Big Cat Appearance, please print out the Request Form at the bottom of this page and either fax or mail to:
K-State Athletic Department Marketing and Promotions
ATTN: Spirit Squad Appearance Request
1800 College Ave.
Manhattan, KS 66502
Fax: (785) 532-7289
Please send requests at least 3 WEEKS PRIOR TO YOUR EVENT. You be contacted for more information and an event confirmation via e-mail or telephone. Appearance fees start at $150 plus mileage but may vary depending on the nature of the appearance. If you have any questions in the meantime, feel free to call the Marketing and Promotions office at (785) 532-5769. Thank you for your cooperation and your support of K-State Athletics!
