he FIU cheerleaders are exceptional student-athletes who exemplify school spirit while serving as ambassadors of Florida International University and the Athletic Department.

The squad performs at men's and women's basketball and football games, numerous on-campus events, pep rallies, functions throughout our local community, Sun Belt Conference championships and the NCAA Tournament.

Their focus will be to improve school spirit, entertain and dazzle the FIU athletic supporters and student body with high-energy talent and athleticism. In addition, they will be striving to improve individually and as a team throughout the year preparing for national competitions.

For public appearances and performances, please contact the Athletic Department at (305) 348-6203 and submit requests in writing to: FIU Cheerleaders/Golden Dazzlers, University Park, GPA 261, Miami, Florida 33199.

Maria George

new member of the FIU staff, Maria George's extensive cheerleading background and experience set her apart from many hopefuls. Most currently, she was a professional cheerleader for the National Football League with the Miami Dolphins. A member of this elite cheerleading squad and organization (98-00), she was chosen as a member of the selective "show team" (travel squad) performing all over the world, in addition to, on the sidelines where she was a team co-captain. Miss George is now benefiting from her time with the Dolphins, as a member of the professional cheerleaders alumni. The PCA is a new organization consisting of alumni cheerleaders from the NFL and NBA, who raise money for women and children's charities. Also an entrepreneur, she is a partner in a planning and public relations company.

A collegiate cheerleader with the impressive Division I University of Pittsburgh Panthers, she was active with the dance team, Pantherette program and an instructor & trainer with the Elite cheerleading organization. On the cheerleading circuit, she was also chosen Division I-A All America. After receiving a B.A. in communications from Pitt, Miss George started her own cheer/dance school in western Pennsylvania where her all-star competition squads were created. The Mon Valley All Stars and Steele City All Stars have captured numerous local, state, regional, and national titles under her direction. A successful businesswoman, entrepreneur, professional cheerleader, dancer, spokesperson, model and philanthropist, FIU is proud and excited to welcome her to our university.

he FIU Golden Panthers shocked the cheerleading world by bringing home the National Cheerleaders Association Grand National Championship Award. FIU defeated a favored Louisville in the finals, becoming the first team from Florida to win the national crown.

After the team won the Division I title at Daytona Beach, it went on to compete against five-time champion Louisville and community college winner Miami-Dade for the Grand Nationals. The judges crowned the Golden Panthers as new champions with a team score of 9.4. It marked the first time that a Division I non-football school had ever beaten a Division I football squad in a head-to-head competition.

he squad is always looking for talented, dedicated and responsible hopefuls who will be an asset to the program as well as achieve academic excellence. Auditions will be held at the Golden Panther Arena on Saturday, April 19, 2003. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. If you have further questions, please contact the cheerleader office at (305) 348-6203 or e-mail us at fiucheer@fiu.edu.