SELINSGROVE, Pa. — Cheerleading at Susquehanna University dates back to at least 1924 with Lynne Ramer and John Derr depicted as “Cheer Leader” and “Assistant Cheer Leader” in that year's issue of the university's yearbook — the Lanthorn .

Until the late 1940s, cheerleading was solely a male sport at Susquehanna, but women became predominant on the team by the late 1950s. Since then, most squads have been all-women with a few men participating at different times. The team is currently open to both men and women.

By the mid-1990s, the Susquehanna cheerleaders were one of the first in perhaps all of small college athletics to add two-and-a-half-high pyramids to their routines. The team continues to add new and innovative stunts while leading Crusaders fans in cheers and chants.

The 2008-09 SU cheerleaders will attend all home and select away football games and all home men's and women's basketball games in addition to providing support for all of Susquehanna's other athletics teams. The squad remains an integral part of Susquehanna's annual Homecoming festivities, including the Homecoming parade.

The Crusaders cheerleaders will also field a competitive cheer team during the 2008-09 academic year.

Uniforms and all other equipment are provided by the university. Individuals need only to purchase personal items such as shoes and briefs. Cheerleaders who successfully complete at least one sports season are awarded a varsity letter. The team also hands out four yearly awards: the Angela Gentile Snyder '02 Spirit Award, the Rookie of the Year Award, the Most Outstanding Cheerleader Award and the Coach's Award.

Susquehanna cheerleaders are campus leaders. When they are not on the sidelines leading the Crusaders spirit, they can be seen as newspaper editors, sorority officers, honors students and resident assistants. They are future scientists, business leaders and teachers. Participation in other activities is supported and encouraged by head coach Jennifer Botchie '99 as part of a full and rich college experience as long as cheerleading also remains a priority.