The mission of the USC Upstate spirit squad is to facilitate a fan experience that is representative of fun, pride and support for all USC Upstate athletic teams through engaging entertainment in the form of dancing, cheering and the building and maintaining of tradition. It is also the purpose of the USC Upstate Cheerleaders to develop students of character by providing them with an experience that will help them gain and refine their dance, cheer and leadership skills.
The USC Upstate Cheerleaders season begins in the fall and continues through the spring semester. All members are responsible for attending all practices and games that occur during that time period, including those that fall during University breaks/vacations and holidays. The USC Upstate cheerleaders participate in several appearances on behalf of the University and Athletic Department.
Being a college cheerleader is an extremely rewarding experience, but is also very time consuming. Cheerleaders are expected to put their academics first and cheerleading second. Anyone interested in trying out should make sure that they are fully aware of the time commitment required and be ready to dedicate themselves accordingly.
Those interested in becoming Sparty, the USC Upstate mascot, should contact Lenny Mathis, senior associate athletic director for external operations at LDMathis@uscupstate.edu.
