Who are the Rally Cats?
The Clemson University Rally Cats Dance Team is the organization that performs and helps keep spirits high at Clemson athletic events. The team, made up of anywhere from 14 to 20 talented young ladies, is supported through the Clemson Athletic Department. These dancers are most visible on the football sidelines and men’s basketball games, including halftime performances. However, the Rally Cats support all athletic teams by making appearances at Solid Orange events. They also perform at numerous pep rallies (First Friday, Tigerama, etc.) and various campus events. The Rally Cats compete at the NDA Collegiate National Dance Championships each April in Daytona Beach, Florida. The team has finished in the top 10 for the past 7 years with their highest finish of 6th place in 2004 and 2007!

Life as a Rally Cat
There is no question that being a member of the Rally Cat squad requires time and dedication. Try-outs are held in April (see “Try-outs” for details) and all members named to the team must report before the Fall Semester begins for a pre-season camp at the beginning of August. Throughout the year, the Rally Cats practice 4 days a week for 2 hours a session. The girls also have a personal trainer who meets with them for mandatory strength training 2 mornings a week. The Rally Cats receive many appearance requests and they try to honor as many as they can. Being a member of the Clemson Rally Cats is very time consuming. Dedication to teamwork and dance is a must for this organization to be successful.

Benefits and Privileges of Being a Rally Cat
Because the Rally Cats are fully supported by the Athletic Department, the team members see many benefits for their hard work and dedication the to the university. Academics must be a priority. The Rally Cats may use the Athletic Academic facility, Vickery Hall, which provides support to athletes such as tutors and study hall. They also have a personal trainer in the Jervey athletic weight room that provides them with strength trainer for a dancers needs. If an injury occurs, the Rally Cats are treated by the athletic doctors and trainers.

Currently, there is no scholarship money awarded to the Rally Cats. However, all apparel, travel and other expenses are provided through the athletic department.