MGCCC cheerleaders and Perkettes kick off winning season

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Cheerleading Squad for 2013-2014.

Cheerleaders

The MGCCC 2013-2014 cheerleaders kicked into action with their annual trek to the Universal Cheerleaders Association camp held at The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, July 19-22. The squad brought home a trophy case full of awards from camp, including five blue ribbons. The group won first place for Sideline Cheer, Fight Song Performance and Game Day Planning. MGCCC also took second place in its division and fourth place in the overall category. Bulldog mascot Lake Jones earned a leadership award.

Emily Weathers (team captain), Autumn Huffman and Jenna Parker were all invited to tryout for spots on the Universal Cheerleading Association (UCA) fall staff.

“We’ve got another young group this year,” says Shellie Campbell, cheerleader sponsor. “The girls are working very hard with tumbling and performing stunts. I’m so proud of their performance at camp and how well they work together. And they know its not just about cheering.  They know part of our job is to represent the college on and off the field. It’s important for our squad to be made up of good athletes, and more importantly, good people.”

The MGCCC cheerleaders, a symbol of Bulldog spirit since 1927, are featured at MGCCC football and basketball games, at the college’s annual Media Day and at other local events. The Bulldog mascot has been a fixture at games and other school-sponsored events since 1985.

Perkette dance captain Damaris Basconez performs during a halftime show.

Perkettes

The 2013-2014 Perkettes Dance Team brought home seven blue ribbons and also earned the Most Improved Award during the Universal Dance Association camp.  Perkette captain Damaris Basconez was also chosen to perform in the camp’s final routine.

The squad attended a one-day clinic at Kelli’s Steps in Biloxi on June 11 to prepare for camp, training with renowned choreographers and dance teachers Kyle Kahn and Trent Dickens.

Since 1952, the Perkettes have been an integral part of the Band of Gold and are a must-see fixture at football games.

The Perkettes Dance Team is led by Stacy Fore.