Spirit Squad Spotlight: Cheer Team Seniors
11/17/2015 12:00:00 AM | Spirit Department
Nov. 24, 2015
The spirit squad seniors have spent years on the sidelines and courtside supporting other teams. Now it's time to turn the spotlight on them. Meet cheer's Haley Hodder, a nursing major who plans to live in the Windy City, and Kevin Waterman, a mechanical engineering major who used to be in the band.
How did you first get involved with cheerleading?
I started cheering for my brother and cousin's rocket football team when I was in elementary school and I continued to cheer and do gymnastics all the way through high school. I always knew I wanted to go to Michigan. That was the easiest decision to make. I only applied to U-M. Looking back, maybe not the safest decision but I didn't want to be anything other than a Michigan Wolverine.
What has been your favorite memory from being on the Michigan cheer team?
Most people would say running out of tunnel, which I undoubtedly have to say is one of the most humbling and amazing experiences, but I would have to say my favorite memory is leading the Michigan Marching Band to the stadium with all the fans (my parents included). It really fires everyone up for the game.
What is your favorite thing about being a Michigan cheerleader?
Being able to be a role model for kids. It's so fun interacting with all the kids and fans. You can tell it really makes their day. Also, having the best seats in the Big House is pretty unbelievable. I'm a huge football fan, and I get just about as fired up as Harbaugh on the sideline. I've almost been tackled a few times because I get too close to the field.
What is your favorite cheer?
It's not really a cheer, but we chant "It's great to be a Michigan Wolverine!" Because it really is.
What is your favorite Michigan tradition?
I love running down to the student section with the football team after a win and singing the fight song. All the girls get on the boys' shoulders and we all are singing together. It is pretty surreal.
What is the best thing about football games, home or away?
Michigan shows up to play and so do the fans. We without a doubt have the best fans in the world. We find them no matter where we go. It's also crazy when we aren't in the Big House, that's when you realize how big it really is.
What is the best thing about basketball games?
I'm not standing in the cold and they are only two hours long. Just kidding. We get to hand out pizza and T-shirts, which makes the fans love us.
Who is the most famous person you have met and what were the circumstances?
Bear and Cooper -- my dogs. They get better treatment than any celebrity.
Do you have any hidden talents?
It isn't all that hidden, but I am overly organized. I plan every single second of my day. It might be a little OCD. Almost every assignment for class is done about a week in advance.
How does it feel to interact with the public and be a role model for kids on game days?
It is really fun. I always let the little girls hold my poms. I love getting kids excited about Michigan. I know being a Michigan cheerleader was always my dream so I like to let them join in with us if we are doing a cheer. Who knows, maybe they will grow up to be one too.
Who was your role model growing up?
My parents. They are the reason I am successful today. They have always been a positive motivating force in my life. From reading books with me every night as a child to showing love and kindness every day -- I am extremely lucky to have them. They are always supporting me and pushing me to do my best, just like they always have.
What is your major and what is next for you after Michigan?
Nursing. I plan to move to Chicago and work at a pediatric hospital.
Are you involved with any other programs on campus?
I am a mentor for Ath-lead.
Have you done any internships?
I worked as a nurse extern at a women's hospital in Atlanta this past summer.
What is your favorite class?
All my classes are nursing based, but my favorite thus far has been working in pediatrics or OB.
Favorite TV show?
TV shows are my weakness. Right now I am watching Criminal Minds and I'm on season three.
Favorite musician?
Ingrid Michaelson
How did you first get involved with cheerleading?
I was a trumpet player in the Michigan Marching Band, where I met Ira (Brandon III), who joined the cheer team a month or so after I met him. He told me to come out to a practice to see what cheer was about, and after the first practice, I decided to stay with the challenge of learning new skills and becoming more involved with Michigan Athletics.
What has been your favorite memory from being on the Michigan cheer team?
Winning back-to-back national championships in Daytona Beach, Florida.
What is your favorite thing about being a Michigan cheerleader?
Being able to watch and support the football and basketball teams from the field or courtside, home or away.
What is your favorite cheer?
The Michigan Body Spell
What is your favorite Michigan tradition?
Running out of the tunnel behind the Michigan Marching Band before every home football game.
What is the best thing about football games, home or away?
The atmosphere of the stadium!
What is the best thing about basketball games?
Being able to stand and watch the games behind the hoop, getting close to the action.
Who is the most famous person you have met and what were the circumstances?
Big Sean. I got to meet him while he was walking out of the tunnel at the Michigan vs. Ohio State basketball game last season.
Do you have any hidden talents?
Playing the trumpet
What is your major and what is next for you after Michigan?
Mechanical engineering. I plan on going into the oil and gas industry or going to graduate school to earn a Master's in Engineering degree.
Have you been involved in any interesting research?
I did research last summer at the North Campus Research Complex involving robotics and laser arc welding.
What is your favorite class?
ME 433: Advanced Energy Solutions
Favorite musician?
Childish Gambino
