University of Regina cheer team visits the legislature

Posted: January 16, 2013 4:00 p.m.

On the eve of their departure to compete in the International Cheer Union (ICU) World University Cheerleading Championship in Orlando, Florida, members of the Regina Cougars Cheerleading Team received well wishes from Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall.

“We are all proud of you,” said Wall as he greeted team members at the legislative building. “Your hard work has paid off, and we’ll be rooting for you in Florida.”

Wall, along with Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Kevin Doherty, and MLAs Gene Makowsky and Warren Steinley chatted with the team, and signed a large banner wishing them good luck.

The 27-member team won first place in the Small Co-ed Division at the Canadian National University Cheerleading Championships in Brampton, Ontario on December 1. The Cougars are the only Canadian team invited to compete at the world championship event.

It’s a real honour to be recognized by the premier of the province,” said Cheer Coach Thomas Rath. “The team is really excited about competing at this level. It’s a huge opportunity for us.”

The University of Regina Cougars Cheerleading Team has placed first in 2008, 2010 and 2012 at the Canadian National Championships. They came in second in 2009 and 2011, and third in 2005, 2006 and 2007.

In operation since 2005, the ICU World University Cheerleading Championship attracts almost 4,000 university athletes from around the globe. It is broadcast live on ESPN.