March 1, 2002

MTV features Loyola cheerleaders

Loyola's cheerleaders gained national attention by appearing on MTV's Super Bowl edition of "Total Request Live" and helping teach a clinic for local cheerleaders performing in the big game.

On February 2, the Wolfpack cheerleaders welcomed celebrities and roused fans on the top-rated MTV show known as TRL. Actor Chris Klein and rapper Ludacris hosted the live show, while LL Cool J and actress Rebecca Romijn-Stamos also made appearances. Loyola's cheerleaders were the only squad invited to participate in the program.

The Wolfpack cheerleaders, along with other college and professional cheerleaders, taught a daylong clinic on Jan. 26 for 1,000 grammar and high school cheerleaders performing during the Super Bowl. Speakers were invited to serve as positive role models for the girls, including pop singer Jessica Simpson, racecar driver Mary Ann Pavoski, local anchorwoman Sally-Ann Roberts, and Sen. Mary Landrieu. Squad president Brandi Boatner says she was "impressed and touched" that the young girls saw the Loyola cheerleaders as role models too.

Crystal Morrison, staff advisor to the cheerleaders, says that "everyone should be proud" of these involvements since they give the school positive publicity. Loyola is not well known for its competitive sports, Morrison says, but "to be called by MTV to participate in this event is a good thing."

Lynette Roberson, A'03, Intern in the Offices of Public Affairs and Publications