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Members of the Iowa Spirit Squads
Spirit Squads On The Rise
Members of the Iowa Spirit Squads are ambassadors for the university — electrifying crowds, providing Black & Gold spirit in the community, cheering on fellow student-athletes during competition, excelling at national competitions, and much more.
“The opportunity for the Iowa Spirit Squads to have its own practice facility is amazing. Having the Marley dance floor and cheer mats permanently installed, the sound system built in, and game/fitness items just steps away is a game changer for our teams. This is a place we can call home.”
Head Cheerleading Coach and Spirit Coordinator Gregg Niemiec
Top 10
Performances by the Dance Team at 2023 Nationals
100+
Events performed at each year
Despite the pride and energy the Spirit Squads bring to hundreds of Hawkeye events every year, our cheerleaders, dance team, and Herky the Hawk lack a permanent training facility on campus. Currently members of the Spirit Squads practice in various locations around campus — ranging from the Field House to Carver-Hawkeye Arena to Halsey Hall.
We aspire to provide the spirit squads with an on-campus home. This new space in a facility designed for gymnastics and the spirit squads will provide the spirit squads with everything needed under one roof:
- A dedicated 5,500 sq. ft. practice area
- A new Marley dance floor
- A new set of cheer mats
- Changing room
- Coaches offices
- Team meeting room
“Iowa Spirit Squads do so much on behalf of the University of Iowa — whether it’s bringing unsurpassed energy and spirit on gameday or representing the Hawkeye State at national competitions. This new space will give us a permanent home and help us train, compete, and perform at the highest level.”
– Head Cheerleading Coach and Spirit Coordinator Gregg Niemiec