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1/8/2007
By Sequoia
“Sea Gal of the Year” is a title given to one girl each season, voted on by the rest of the team. While this award is given to only one girl, it is earned by many.
How do you ever really know who to give the game ball to? With that said, it is an extraordinary honor, and I cherish it deeply because it comes from my peers. However, there are not enough Sea Gal titles, trips to the Super Bowl or television shows that would ever make Sea Gals worthwhile if I didn’t absolutely love the women I work with on this team.
Each year is a little different, with slightly different girls, and just like the Seahawks I feel that these past two years have come together perfectly. If you have ever been part of a team, you know that no one person can make a team great. I'm lucky to stand in the same light as all the other Sea Gals; these are amazing women with big ambitions, even bigger hearts and endless talent.
I have some of my most precious friendships because of the Sea Gals, and that is truly the ultimate award to be given.
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12/12/2006
By Georgia
Wrapping up the year with Christmas and cheer makes me smile. And so does the Sea Gals blue velvet holiday dress that we only get to wear for our December games.
It was this time last year that I was totally hyped for the Christmas Eve game at Qwest Field. I had never considered a football game to be a Christmas Eve “tradition” by any means, but the Seahawks were firmly on top of their game and chipping away at the road to the Super Bowl. As I watched the game that cold night, I remember watching the Sea Gals dance at halftime in the blue velvet holiday dress and matching hat, choreographed with a candy cane prop. It was so cute and it just looked like so much fun, that right then and there I decided I would try out for the 2006 squad.
And now here I am!
I recently was fitted by the team designer for my very own dress. Thursday we wrapped new foam candy canes with red ribbon to be used in our upcoming pre-game show. It was so thrilling to imagine that just last year I was sitting in the stands just imagining dancing at Qwest Field and twirling with the holiday music.
This year has been a blast - I have loved every minute of it. And now that I finally get to wear the holiday dress, it’s like a Christmas present for me to enjoy. And for all the fans too, we hope they love what we have put together for this season’s December games!
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December 8, 2006
By Becki
Let’s talk about linguistics for a minute. There are individuals in the world who dedicate their careers to understanding the science of a language. If a linguist decided to listen in on one of our Sea Gal practices, I think it’s safe to say that they would spend the rest of their careers deciphering the pragmatics and phraseology of our unique Sea Gal “language.” In truth, we Sea Gals have a distinctively understood “mish-mosh” of jargon.
So let’s start with the basics:
Shimmer
- (v.) to shake one’s poms, either concurrently or independently of one another; dependent on choreographic styling
- (n.) a powdery aesthetic formulation applied to face, lips, and skin for a natural radiant glow; perfect for pre-game locker room rituals
- (v.) what Sea Gals do on a warm football Sunday afternoon at Quest Field
Puddle
- (n.) a frequent visitor to Seattle; pairs nicely with the resident pothole
- (n.) a classic Sea Gal formation: merely a nonsensical cluster of girls with little to no pre-meditated positioning or geometric configuration; usually seen at the end of a routine
- (v.) “Puddling” – the act of forming a puddle (see Puddle part 2.)
Ripple
- (v.) what all Sea Gals’ muscles do 24 hours a day
- (n.) a masterful collaboration of Sea Gal skill: each Gal or group of Gals has assigned moves (usually of identical nature and length), the designated starting Gal(s) begin the movement or series of movements (usually at the end of a formation), while the other groups follow subsequently on designated starting counts. If executed to maximum potential, the resulting visual effect is a wave-like rippling movement of shimmering poms
- synonyms – Peel-off; Roll-Off; Dancing in a Round
- variations – Left to Right; Right to Left; Front to Back; Back to Front; Spiral Ripple; Ripple Dip; Tall, Skinny, No Whip Ripple Dip
While my underlying attempt at humor may only be appreciated by fluent “speakers of dance,” this blurb is intended to give you some insight to the less understood facts of Sea Gal life.
Cheers!
Becki
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11/29/2006
By Katie
I have been contemplating which part of my Sea Gals experience I would like to share most with you. So far, my rookie year has been both thrilling and spectacular, making it difficult to narrow down the highlights. After reminiscing about the beginning of the season, I decided to tell you a story about how a small-town California girl became a Sea Gal in the big city of Seattle.
Although I was born and raised in California, I moved up to Yakima, Washington to live with my then fiancé, and now husband, Joshua. After completing my degrees in Musical Theatre and Liberal Studies, I spent most of my time working at Starbucks, substitute teaching for a Montessori school, teaching dance, and dancing for the local CBA team - the Yakima Sun Kings. I had dreams of taking my musical theatre experience to the next level, but I wasn’t really sure where that fit into my husband’s naval career.
In January, 2006, my husband and I attended our first Seahawks game against the Washington Redskins in the playoffs, and it was there that I saw the Sea Gals in action for the first time. Every Sea Gal has a moment when, in her heart, she knows she is ready for the challenge of professional cheerleading, and right then it occurred for me! For the months that followed I trained both physically and emotionally for tryouts in April, waiting anxiously for the day to arrive. When it did come, all my hard work paid off after I found out I made the team. Little did I know that making the team was only the beginning of a major transition that would affect my professional and personal life.
One of the most significant obstacles was avoided when my husband vowed to support my decision, no matter what. After ten years of service he was anxious to try something new, and moving to Seattle would give him all of the opportunities he needed. After an easy job search, I found the perfect occupation that combined teaching performance and entry-level management at a well-known child development center.
Now everything has magically fallen into place, and the point of my story is to let everybody know that no matter what your situation, your dreams truly are possible.
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11/17/2006
By Heidi
I have had the privilage to be a part of the Sea Gals for the past two seasons now, and I have enjoyed and loved every minute of it. I couldn't have asked for a better time to be a Sea Gal starting last year in my rookie season and going all the way to the Super Bowl. I have meet some amazing people and have made some memories that will last a lifetime.
There are many things that we as Sea Gals are involved in - it's not all about putting on the uniform and shaking our pom-poms! As Sea Gals we are representing the Seattle Seahawks and the NFL. We are very involved in our community and we get to participate in many charity events and work with many different people and organizations.
One of my favortie experiences has been working with our Jr. Sea Gals program. Every summer we allow girls from the ages of 7-14 to sign up and practice with us for three Saturdays, learn a routine and then perform with us at halftime. This year I was able to be the head teacher for the 7-8 year olds. I was able to work with that same age group last year as well, so I was excited when I was able to be working with that age again.
This year we had 150 girls in our program, which I believe was the most we have ever had. I had about 50 little 7-8 year olds, and I definately had my work cut out for me! I was a little nervous going into it, but once we got there for the first practice and I saw those little smiling, happy, and FULL of energy little girls, I wanted to be the best teacher I could be and help those girls be the best Jr. Sea Gals they could be. In their eyes we are more than cheerleaders, we are role models and women they look up to. I have never had so many girls grace me with hugs and warmth as those 7-8 year olds did. It was so much fun just being surrounding by girls who look up to you so much, and here I'm thinking I'm just a normal girl doing what I love to do. These girls touched my life in so many ways and made what I love to do so much more worth it - which is cheering and dancing for our Seattle Seahawks.
I am so glad I was able to have the experience of working with these girls in our Jr. Sea Gals program, and you never know when a smile, a hug or even words of encouragement may impact a child's life forever. I know these girls have touched my life, and I will chereish that and hold on to that feeling when I saw their faces while they were performing at halftime.
This is just one of the many experiences that I have enjoyed while being with the Sea Gals, and that's why I love what I do.
Heidi
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11/15/2006
By Jennifer
It's a busy life we all lead. For me, it's going from one job to another or to Sea Gals practice. In what free time there is, I spend my time with family and friends, play with my two dogs, practice more, clean house, and try to get some sleep. It's so easy to get wrapped up in the hustle & bustle, and we often forget to appreciate the little things or give a hand to someone in need.
Last year as a Sea Gal, I had an experience that opened my eyes and touched my heart. I had the opportunity to visit with leukemia patients at the University of Washington Medical Center. I was surprised to find them so positive, joyful and uplifting while they were at battle with a serious disease. It was truly inspirational.
When I start to complain about the pains of life, I remember that day and I feel thankful.
The community service that we have the opportunity to be involved with is definitely a very rewarding part of being a Sea Gal. I encourage you all to make an effort to help someone in need this year. Whether it's big or small, it doesn't matter - it will make a difference!
Here are a couple of simple ways to contribute and brighten someone's life:
I work at Starbucks, and we have a Joy Drive every year to collect gifts for children in need. It's so easy to drop off unwrapped toys or storybooks at your local Starbucks. The toys are collected in support of Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation in their effort to brighten the lives of seriously ill children in our neighborhood.
On December 4th at 5:30 pm, the Sea Gals will host their Annual Charity Auction at Sport Restaurant in Fisher Plaza. We will be raising money for a local women's shelter and the Sea Gals Guild for Children's Hospital. We have had such amazing success over the years and are excited to once again have this opportunity. I hope to see you there.
Happy Holidays!
Jennifer
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11/10/2006
By Anna
I have been thinking of a piece about Sea Gals to share with fans for a few days now. How can I explain what has become an integral part of my life? There are so many tangents this piece could take, but the one the remained in the forefront of my thoughts is my teammates.
I remember well the time before ever cheering in the NFL, wondering what the entire experience would be like. From the outside, one can only imagine all the work, fun, and tenacity each woman must possess. Now, as I am coming to the end of my six years in the NFL, I can look back fondly, but also lament for all the experiences I will not have again.
The majority of our job is performed in the public eye. Game day is an indescribable thrill, every time. Having the opportunity to make a difference in the community through philanthropic work is another gratifying part of the Sea Gals experience. The things no one else sees, though, may be the best part of all.
I am preparing for a cross country move and entering into a new chapter in my life. I know my time here has been well spent, I know I have taken advantage of every opportunity afforded me, and I know this is the time for me to move on to other endeavors. Yet I proceed with caution, knowing I will not find the camaraderie I have here. You see, the best part of Sea Gals isn’t always game day or charity work, sometimes it's the encouraging smile from a teammate when you are having a rough day, a smirk from across the room that tells a story without speaking a word, or spontaneous group laughter erupting from some sarcastic wit.
I will miss saying "remember when we"... and having everyone in the room instantly laugh or sigh, because they experienced it as well. I am now aware after you get out of school, rarely do you find yourself involved in a coterie you care about. To voluntarily leave one you hold in high esteem, I am finding to be an audacious feat.
I am looking forward to the remainder of the 2006 season, and valuing all the things I have yet to do. Next year, as I watch from the stands, I know I will be wishing all the best to my former teammates - with just the slightest tinge of jealousy, hoping they, too, make the most of their experience.
See you at the games,
Anna
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11/3/2006
By Tessa
This is my first year on the squad, and man has it been an awesome experience so far! The girls are amazing - super nice and genuine. The friendships I am building I know I will have forever. The fans are great, and the overall job is indescribable.
I love going to Sea Gals practice. It's my happy place, and I feel the girls truly like me for me!
I would have to say one of my favorite memories (so far) would definitely be the Giants game. I have never heard anything that loud before! I just love the games and the fans. It makes all the hard work and late-night practices worth it. The overall atmosphere is incredible!
Another memory would be at the Paintfest promo that I participated in at the beginning of October. We painted murals that would be put up in children's hospitals around the United States. My boyfriend was diagnosed with cancer last year, and we have spent a lot of weeks and months at the hospital, so it was an event where I felt I could give back.
At the Paintfest event I met a little girl with cancer named Hailey, and we painted together. Just seeing how brave and full of life she was really gave me hope. She was 6 years-old and going strong; she inspired me! I was given a picture of the two of us painting together, and that will stay close to me forever.
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11/1/2006
By Sequoia
Today is Wednesday, which is usually a day off from Sea Gal-related activates for us. However, this year I have been making NFL game picks on a local radio station KISW. "The Ricker Show" has put together a contest for a Sea Gal (me) to go against "The Ricker" all season long, picking who will win 5 NFL games each week.
I have an above average knowledge of football for a girl and have done very well so far. I watch a lot of football; I have studied the history of the game; I watch "NFL All Access" 3 times a week when I work out in the morning, and I listen to KJR Radio every single morning when I get ready.
However, I have come to a conclusion since we are about half-way through the season.
Even with all this study, I have the hardest time remembering player’s names and coaches, and who is out due to injury. Yadda, yadda, yadda...I think there must be some inherent difference between men and women when it comes to remembering sports statistics. Before I go in each week, I make notes about the games from the week before and who might be injured. I still have to constantly refer to my notes each time I go on the air, and to date I'm behind by only one game.
I made my picks for next week, and as always I pick my beloved Seahawks and whoever is playing against Pittsburgh - since those are the games I care about most. I’m trying really hard to represent well for my “female football fans” out there!
I must admit, though, that even if you don’t know much about the game and you just pick teams with cute quarterbacks, it makes watching the games a lot more fun.
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10/22/2006
Hey Hawks fans!
As some of you may know, my name is Chantale and this is my second year on the Sea Gals. Being a part of the Seahawks organization has been nothing but a series of exciting experiences for me!
First just making the team, then being the NFC Champions and going to the Super Bowl in my first year cheering! I thought that it was going to be hard to have a second year that compared to the first, but the excitement just kept on coming when I found out that I had been chosen as the 2007 Sea Gals Calendar cover girl!
When I shot for the calendar last May, I knew that it went really well, but I still never expected to get the cover!
It was a long time after the photo shoot that we all finally got to see the results. We had talked about it all summer long wondering how our pictures turned out and what it would look like this year.
Finally on the day that Robin brought it for us to see, we all gathered around her, and she waited until all of us were there to make sure no one missed out, (I think she was the most excited one of us all!). When she pulled it out of the envelope and I saw my face on the cover, I cannot even explain how I felt! It was so amazing! Then she flipped through the pages so that we could see all of the months, and everyone just looked so beautiful.
For me being chosen this year was so humbling, because on Sea Gals we have 31 awesome and beautiful ladies, and I hope that I can represent them well this season!
All of you Seahawks fans should go get a calendar and check it out for yourself! GO HAWKS!
-Chantale
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