Oct. 31, 2007

SPARTANBURG, S.C. - The USC Upstate Department of Athletics and head cheerleading coach Brandy Laney proudly announce the 17 individuals who will comprise the cheerleading squad for 2007-08.

After fall tryouts were completed, the following individuals were named to the Upstate cheerleading squad: Amber Brackett, Kayla Brady, Lander Brown, Jonesha Cauthen, Samantha Conyers, Quashaylla Dawkins, Kaitlin Elmore, Sara Goodman, Stephanie Gosnell, Carrie Harlow, Kesha Malloy, Holly Pridgen, Ashley Rainwater, Jocelyn Roper, Myesha Stack, Camille Sweatt and Allie Tyner.

"I am looking forward to working with them," said Laney. "I think there is a lot of talent. With practice, the team should add a lot of energy to the games."

The Spartan cheerleaders perform at all home men's and women's basketball games, as well as represent the department and University at community appearances and in cheer competitions. The Spartan cheerleaders will also participate in several on campus non-athletic events throughout the academic year.

Laney was hired as the head cheerleading coach earlier this semester. She has a long history of excellence both as a participating cheerleader as well as a coach and instructor. As a cheerleader, she was a two-time national champion on the Georgia College & State University cheer team and was a three-time All-American an Winder High School in Georgia. As a coach, she led the Apalachee High School team to a Georgia state championship in 2003. She owns and operates the United Cheerleading of Spartanburg training center and coaches five all-star competition teams.