By: Emily Rauch
“Hey Baby,” go ahead and “Shout it Out” because “I know You Want Me,” so “Hold On, I’m Coming.” No, this not a terrible pick-up line that you would only hear at Greenville College, but rather a few of the songs the GC marching/pep band plays at sporting events. The band mainly goes to football and basketball games. Flashing horns, weaving in and out of human obstacles, and crabbing are just a few of the things the band must master before they are ready to put on a show. Plenty of time is spent in practice rooms as both sections and individuals learn the songs they must play during the games. They play during halftime and time-outs for both football and basketball, bringing excitement and rhythm to the stands. The band is small, numbering only 23 instruments, two flags and a drum major, but they are mighty. At the end of all practices and performances, they shout their motto: “Never give up. Never back down. Never lose faith in God, each other, ourselves.”
Another set of faces you are likely to see at these games is that of the cheerleaders. With rousing cheers and graceful leaps, these girls keep the audience pumped up and participating with call and response cheers and the beloved sign saying “We Are/Panther Nation.” They have battled and overcome obstacles such as injuries and sickness, dropping from a squad of 12 to only nine. They take cheerleading to a new level as their four fliers balance in the hands and above the heads of their squad mates.
The final group that uses a specific talent to support our athletes is the dance team. Alternating between movements as one body and as separate individuals takes precision and timing. These girls must be dedicated to put together a great show. Throughout their routine, they surprise the audience with kicks, splits, and fancy pom maneuvers. You can see all of these people perform at the upcoming NCCAA Victory Bowl here at Greenville on Saturday, November 17 at 12 pm. After all, what good is putting in all this hard work without an audience?
