As anticipation grows for the football season, TCU’s cheer team is in full preparation mode for gameday. 

The cheer team has been prepping for the season since summer. Practices were held for 4-5 hours every day during the first two weeks of August and leading up to the season, practices have been twice a week. 

“Our practice schedule focuses heavily on elements that showcase crowd-leading visuals, and elite skill-based choreography for an energetic and athletic entertainment component at football games,” Coach McLaurin said. 

This Saturday’s game doubles as TCU’s home opener and family weekend. 

“The home opener coinciding with Family Weekend brings more excitement to our team as we get the opportunity to perform in front of our loved ones on such a special day,” McLaurin said. “It should be a great night in the Carter.” 

McLaurin said the team’s game presentation has been enhanced by showcasing more elite stunting, tumbling and elevated spirit-raising techniques within the pregame and sideline performances. TCU fans should expect to see a new and improved pre-game routine, said Kaylee Mills, a junior fashion merchandising major. 

 Members of the team arrive fully ready 5 hours before the game starts on game days. For away games, 8 members travel to represent TCU and those members build and practice pyramid stunts the week of the away game. 

Mills said the captains are the strongest leaders and help with making sidelines and stunt groups. 

TCU cheer has an exciting season to look forward to, bringing energy and spirit to gameday. Although the team is a little nervous about the pre-game routine, veterans and rookies are excited to pull the performance together. 

“We pride ourselves on being one of the top collegiate game day programs in the Big 12,” McLaurin said.