Tinnia Monroe
Published: Friday, October 17, 2008
A press conference held in the Lou Ross Center on Oct. 7 with the basketball teams and cheer-dance squad gave all the media that was present an inside insight to the upcoming season and team players.
With an opening speech from PJC’s new president, Dr. Ed Meadows, giving thanks to the media, the press conference began.
Long-time PJC coach, LaRita Carter, introduced the cheer-dance team first.
The cheer-dance squad consists of dancers and cheerleaders from all over the United States and Canada. There are 10 cheerleaders on the team that is made up of six sophomores and four freshmen, giving the team a variety of new and experienced girls. On the six-member dance team, four are freshmen and two are sophomores. The girls perform during half-time at all home basketball games for both of the Pirate teams.
The Lady Pirates basketball team and their new coaching staff were introduced next. The girls are excited about the season and working hard to get prepared for it. The team members are from Australia, Canada and places all over the United States.
“I am really proud of this group,” said Coach Rigby. “I feel more connected to them than any other team I’ve played with.”
After the Lady Pirates, the Men Pirates were introduced. Along with players from all over the United State are also Georgian natives, a Canadian, and an Australian native.
The male team’s staff ranges from a Panhandle player of the year to Mike Gilbert, the assistant coach, who performs many tasks for the team such as driving the van for team trips.
The boys will be participating in the World Ford Classics on Oct.31 and Nov. 1. Coach Swanson said “the games will help them to have some experience for when the conference begins.”
“I’m excited about the season.” said Swanson. “This group of guys is the best I’ve had to date. This is the first year I haven’t had one guy late or complain to where I could hear it.”
Swanson ended the press conference by answering questions and inviting everyone to watch the basketball teams show off their hard work at the annual Green & White game.