Cal cheerleading has evolved over the years into the seventeen woman squad it is today. In the 1980s, the squad included men and performed a variety of stunts, with an emphasis on yell and gymnastic-type teams. In recent years at football games, the squad - now called the California Dance Team - performs on a wooden platform that is elevated off of the football field. During the basketball season, the team dances on the sidelines and on the basketball court during time-outs, and performs entertaining half-time productions.<br> <br> The team travels across the United States for both football games and basketball tournaments. Over the past few years, the team has traveled to Tennessee, New York, Illinois and Hawaii, as well as the three states in the Pac-10 Conference.<br> <br> This year's California Dance Team consists of 17 women who support all campus activities. The team cheers at football, women's volleyball, and men's and women's basketball games, dancing to 12 traditional Cal fight songs and Cal band rock songs. They perform at a variety of rallies and alumni functions throughout the Bay Area. The team also participates in community events such as cheer and dance clinics at local elementary, junior high and high schools.<br> <br> All members are full-time Cal students pursuing degrees in areas ranging from English to architecture to chemical engineering. Participation on the team requires a minimum of 7.5 hours of practice and a minimum of two performances per week. A few members hold part-time jobs as well. They were selected for the team in April through a rigorous one-day tryout process. The team begins summer practice in July and attends a dance camp in Santa Barbara with dance teams from all over the United States, including the Pac-10 Conference.<br> <br> Thanks to all of the past Cal Dance Team members for dedicating yourself to the program. Thank you to all of our wonderful supporters, with special thanks to: <br> <br> <div align="center"> Diane Milano, Spirit Advisor<br> Leonard and Judy Chong<br> Carol Clarke</div>