Chi-Chi's Prepare For Week in Charlotte

As the CIAA tournament approaches, players, participants, and spectators are all gearing up to make their way to Charlotte, NC to be a part of the activities. For fans and spectators, everyone enjoys different parts in the week long event from the games to the step show to just reuniting with old college friends there's something for everyone.

While our Shaw basketball players are steadily practicing hard for the week long tournament, and one of our Greek organizations is practicing hard for the step show they will be competing in, people tend to forget one important group of talented individuals who are also practicing hard for their week in Charlotte. Who is the group, our very own Shaw University Chi-Chi's of course.

 Not only do the Chi-Chi's cheer on our basketball teams during the tournament, but they also participate in the cheerleading exhibition held on Saturday, March 5^th during Super Saturday. All 12 CIAA cheerleading squads put on a performance showcasing their talents. Every squad comes up with a different theme each year; themes have ranged from boxers, mechanics to Broadway show girls.

Although the Chi-Chi's would like to leave this year's theme a surprise, it's definitely one that people won't forget. Freshman Charnee Johnson said she's looking forward to all the excitement on Saturday while performing and having a good time with her cheermates.

Being that this year's squad is all new, except for one, the Chi-Chi's have a lot to look forward to experiencing the CIAA for the first time together. "It feels great to finally be a part of something that I've been coming to watch all my life," says freshman Christina Jackson.

Junior Jameya Barnwell, the only returning member, says she excited to return to the CIAA this year. "Last year it being my first time was a great experience, something everybody should have, "says Barnwell. She says she excited to go with her new cheermates, although she was skeptical at first going with a whole new squad she says they have progressed so much over the season she knows they're going to do great during the tournament.