BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – The CSU Bakersfield cheer team hosted its first kids clinic of the season Saturday, Nov. 15, inside the Physical Education Building, welcoming dozens of young participants for an afternoon of spirit, skill-building and fun.

Clinics like this provide the CSUB Spirit Programs an opportunity to offer a fun and memorable experience for the youth of Kern County. Each attendee received a Roadrunner T-shirt upon check-in and was greeted by members of the CSUB cheer team as they entered the gym.

The clinic began with a group warmup that concluded with introductions of the CSUB cheer team. Following warmups, participants rotated through sessions focusing on motions, jumps, stunts and dance, working side by side with CSUB cheerleaders.

"The one-on-one attention my daughter receives from the big girls is what makes this special and why my daughter couldn't wait to come," one parent said.

At the conclusion of the clinic, each attendee received a group photo of the CSUB cheer team, signed by team members as a keepsake.

Following the clinic, participants attended the CSUB volleyball game against UC Irvine, where they performed a special routine during a break after the second set. The performance showcased the skills they learned earlier in the day and gave families a chance to cheer them on.

"Clinics like this are far beyond the skills taught," said CSUB cheer coach Arthur Smith. "They're about the connections and memories made. I was happy to see the little girls having a good time, but I was equally proud to see my athletes demonstrate their leadership and be the role models they are to these girls."

The CSUB cheer team will host its second clinic of the season on Jan. 31, open to middle school and high school students.