Introducing the Newest Texas Cheer Co-Captains

Congratulations Whitney Prior (PC '10) and Kayla Bright (PC '11)
 on becoming the Texas Cheer Co-Captains! ZLAM!

Heather Broyles (PC '09), Kayla Bright (PC '11), Whitney Prior (PC '10) and Cici Haley (PC '11)
cheering at the Texas Football Game with  Owen (daughter of ZTA Advisor, Amy Biegel)

My college experience thus far can be described as both unique and privileged. Not only have I been able to be a member of the most incredible sorority on campus, but I have also been a part of the University of Texas Spirit Program for the past three years. For those of you who don’t know, I was elected co-captain of the White Squad this past week. I am unbelievably blessed and thankful to head into my senior year filling this honorable position. That being said, I look at my new rank in leadership as more of an opportunity than a title. As co-captain, I can serve as a positive role model for my peers, as well as for new students coming to the University of Texas.

Texas Cheer Captain Heather Broyles (PC '09),
Kayla Bright (PC '11), Tara Mery (PC '11)
and Whitney Prior (PC '10)

My journey to this point in my college career has been far from easy. This leadership position is the direct result of hard work, sleepless nights, and a LOT of sweat. Although I regret each time I missed a chapter meeting, a social downtown, or simply a sisterhood get together, I have to remind myself those sacrifices were necessary to obtain this leadership role. I hope that in the future, my ability to be an ambassador the University of Texas will help others see what qualities Zetas possess and encourage them to join our family. I genuinely believe that my experiences as both Cheerleader and a Zeta have allowed me grow into a stronger, responsible figure at our University.

Grand Big and Grand Little Lovin'
Morgan Willet (PC '12) and Whitney Prior (PC '10) 

In all, I only hope I can give back to Zeta Tau Alpha what it has given me. Without the support of all my sisters who caught my tears after a difficult practice, or listened to me talk through a cheer dilemma, I would not be where I am today. Thank you especially to Heather Broyles, Alex Bennett, Lara Hoover, Tara Mery, Cici Haley, Courtney Hosea, Sara Pence and Paige More (to name a few) for being those sisters to me. As members of the Zeta family, we are spoiled to be a part of a group of beautiful, intelligent women who are constantly by our side. I encourage everyone to pursue their passions no matter what they may be. We should never be afraid to take advantage of our sisters’ advice and comfort while pursuing our dreams.

This has been a truly humbling experience, as I hope I can fill the shoes of Zeta leaders before me. Hook ‘em \m/

ZL,

Whitney Prior

PC '10

Around this time three years ago, I was preparing to tryout for the University of Texas All-Girl cheerleading squad. I had never been more nervous about anything else in my life, but the hard work and dedication I had put in during the busy last semester of my senior year of high school paid off. I MADE THE TEAM! Although my time is spread thin between cheer, sorority, and school, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Tara Mery (PC '11) and Kayla Bright (PC '11) Twins!

My transition into college was similar to everyone else’s: marked by learning, time management, getting used to cafeteria food, and sometimes feeling homesick. It was being a part of Texas Cheer that kept me grounded and pushed me through those moments of weakness we all experience every now and then. My experiences of being a part of the spirit program range from cheering at home football games, to rallying at the F1 race, to throwing a pep rally at the Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital. There is never a dull moment in this program and I am extremely fortunate to be a part of it.

One Big ZTA Family
Heather Broyles (PC '09),
Whitney Prior (PC '10),
Kayla Bright (PC '11) and Tara Mery (PC '11)

When my freshman year started coming to a close, I decided that I wanted to rush. After becoming close with two Zetas on my team (Heather Broyles and Whitney Prior) I knew that I also wanted be a Zeta. Since Heather and Whitney, our Texas Cheer Zeta family has grown to eight active members, hopefully even more next year! Being a part of the spirit program is one of the best experiences, but it is not easy. Having sisters within this program helps me get through the stressful and trying times and I am so thankful to always have them by my side!

This past February, I was elected Co-captain of the White Squad for the 2013-2014 season. I am extremely honored and cannot wait to get the new season started! In this position I will be in charge of our team’s internal relations, which includes our choreography and managing uniform and apparel inventory, along various other tasks that pop up during the year. I am excited to begin the new season and can’t wait to welcome new members to our team. I know that my new position on the squad will bring me a new load of responsibilities, but it will also bring me new memories that I will be able to cherish forever. Although my college experience is different from many, being a part of both Texas Cheer and Zeta has brought me more happiness than I could have ever imagined!

ZLAM,

Kayla Bright

PC '11