Del Oro’s marching band, color guard and cheer team have had an eventful semester that would make other schools envious.
On Dec. 7, the cheer team captured first place at the Lamont Christmas parade. Then, on Oct. 12 the team performed at halftime during UCLA’s home game at the Rose Bowl against the University of Minnesota.
Not to be outdone, the marching band and color guard performed at Fresno State on Nov. 2 during the school’s annual band day celebration while members of the cheer team watched and supported their peers from the stands.
At the UCLA and Fresno State events, the Suns were the only representatives from the Kern High School District invited to participate.
The cheer team’s Rose Bowl performance was part of UCLA’s Spirit Day event, which was organized by the United Spirit Association. Del Oro was one of 34 high school and middle school squads from across the state to participate. The Suns cheer team prepared for weeks leading up to the event.
Some of the cheerleaders said the event was chaotic, tiring and stressful. Prior to the halftime show, the cheerleaders spent hours practicing before finally taking the field.
On Nov. 2, the marching band and color guard were invited to perform at halftime during Fresno State’s home game against the University of Hawaii.
Some band members said they were extremely tired after the event. Some had trouble putting on their uniforms but got help from the others. This experience had helped them gain more teamwork skills.
Some color guard members said they enjoyed the free shirts and Fresno State’s campus. Junior Precious Minniefield said the day was tiring but nothing unbearable. However, several color guard members said they were a bit nervous due to the number of people at the stadium.
