The new DU cheerleading squad consists of 12 women who were selected from 22 applicants who participated in cheerleading clinics and subsequent tryouts earlier in May.

The Department of Athletics and Recreation is organizing the squad to support Pioneer athletics. Squad members will act as ambassadors for the school.

Twenty-three people tried out, 22 women and one man. The male, who is currently a mascot, will continue to be the primary mascot and will be a part of the squad, said Angel Field, director of promotions and in-event productions.

Field was responsible for holding the tryouts and called in a panel of three judges, including an NCAA national cheerleading appointed judge. The applicants were scored based on dance technique, cheer technique, toe touches, overall spirit and voice projection with bonus points being awarded for tumbling and additional jumps, said Field.

“Everyone went through the clinic and we took everyone for final tryouts,” said Field. “The level of talent was unbelievable and exceeded our expectations leading into the tryouts.”

Field believes that the “university will be in for a big surprise” and mentioned that the school will be releasing a new mascot starting next year, but that information is still under wraps.

The squad will begin in September with a training camp before beginning their official season cheering at basketball games.

Cheering at basketball games will the squad’s primary function, while they may also cheer at a couple gymnastics meets throughout the year. The squad will also be present in the student section at hockey games to start chants.