Editorial: University neglects fans when forming spirit squad

UConn, although well-reputed for its academics, is most famous for its athletic programs. At many of the big events, such as football and basketball games, the adoring fans are there not only to see the talented football and basketball players, but also the equally talented cheerleaders. At least, that is what they did in past years. All of a sudden, UConn announced over the summer that what was formerly known as the cheerleading team would now be known as the "spirit squad" - much to the chagrin of cheerleaders and students alike. No one among the students seem to know the real cause of this change. This was wholly unexpected and occurred with little warning or student input, as the outcry from many cheerleaders would indicate.

The main problem here is that when making a decision that is meant to "focus in on building spirit at UConn, on spending time working on ways to engage fans and to really spread Husky spirit" as stated by Christine Wilson, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Director of Student Activities, the students should have been consulted. And wasn't this always the point of cheerleading anyway? To bring spirit and engage fans and make the athletic games more fun for everyone? These vague statements that have been officially provided do little to appease students. No reasons have been provided why cheerleaders could not have focused equally on performing stunts and encouraging fans, or even if performing stunts itself could encourage the fans. There is no definitive response to the change, and absolutely no justification for the lack of student input.

This change would have a strong impact on many UConn students, who go to the athletic games and expect to see the cheerleading team performing impressive stunts and motivating the fans. If a decision is made to help fans become more involved during games, then shouldn't these fans have been consulted? UConn's sudden decision seems rather presumptuous in this light, as this was a decision made without much - if any - student input. The editorial board at The Day of New London stated, "But the way the announcement seemed to fall from the sky, without warning or the opportunity for loyal fans - the very people the new "spirit squad" will be courting - to weigh in, is jarring." The administration at UConn is more than welcome to make changes. But if these changes are addressed toward fans, then the fans ought to have been consulted.