The LSU Tiger Girls, the official dance team of Louisiana State University, will not be competing in the 2021 National Championships for the first time in 22 years. According to a statement released by university officials to WAFB TV in Baton Rouge “The spirit program will not be able to participate in Nationals this year due to many constraints of COVID-19.” The team, which was founded in 1999, has previously won national championships in 1999 and 2010, and in 2013 won the world championship title.

A social media post by former dance team member Sammy McFadden describes how important the competition is to this year's team, and why she is asking people to sign a petition to allow them to compete. The post goes on to say “The university’s decision is non-budgetary or COVID related, but due to a lack of staff in the training room. Although we are considered student-athletes by LSU, and hence are promised and required a trainer and training facility privileges to continue dancing at other athletic events, it was made clear we are not allowed these resources during our own competitive season." You can her post below.

Although the competition won't be held until April, the petition has gotten over 21,000 signatures so far, out of a 25,000 goal. In part, it says "Please help us by supporting our efforts in changing the minds of the university officials that have removed competition from our season." Good luck to the LSU Tiger Girls, and read more about their season from WAFB.

 

 

 

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