Conference tournaments are about basketball but also so much more: the fans, bands, cheerleaders, etc. The CAA Tournament is taking place this weekend in Washington, DC, and we could not be more excited to be there in person! HoopsHD will be covering all of the action so you can look forward to a cascade of coverage in the days ahead. Jon Teitel keeps things going with Towson pom squad member Samantha Dunn, who talked about being a captain and her prediction for the Tigers.
You grew up on Long Island: what made you choose Towson? I knew that I wanted something away from home but not too far and Towson is the perfect distance. I can go home when I need to but it also gives me the chance to experience life without my parents.
How did you 1st get into pom, and what is the best part? I started dancing when I was 2 and have danced competitively since 2nd grade. I am thankful that my parents let me try it because it helped shape me into the person I am today. I could not imagine not dancing in college. The best part is all of the relationships I have made throughout the years. The bond you make with your teammates and accomplishing your goals together is something that any athlete can appreciate.
What do you think the role of a college pom squad is today, and how has it changed over time? Our main role is to show our school spirit by cheering on our sports teams and competing at nationals. Dancing has definitely gotten more competitive over time and involves a lot more crowd engagement.
You are captain of the team: what is the key to being a good leader? I feel that it is important to communicate with the whole team and push them to be their best. You need to ensure that everyone feels welcome: it can be intimidating to join a new team. It is also crucial to have an open mind so that you can focus on the betterment of the team.
You are an exercise science major: why did you choose that subject? I came into college as a biology major but after the 1st semester I realized that it was not what I wanted. I tried exercise science instead and quickly learned that it was something I could enjoy in the future.
You are graduating in a couple of months: what is the post-college plan? I plan on moving back to Long Island and taking a gap year to prepare for grad school. I want to attend PA school and eventually become an orthopedic physician’s assistant.
Your basketball team only won 4 games in 2021 but has now had back-to-back 20-win seasons: what is the atmosphere like on campus now that the conference tournament is finally here? Everyone is excited to watch and cheer on the Tigers this weekend!
How does your school decide who gets to go to DC, and what will it mean to you to see your group doing its thing in front of a national TV audience? It means a lot: we love showing our school spirit and do not take this opportunity for granted. It is based on availability: you do not know what it is really like until you are there.
Does your squad have anything extra-special planned for this weekend? Not really: just showing our Towson spirit.
Any predictions for your 1st game on Sunday night? I am hoping that we win and can watch the Tigers keep fighting while they take it to the next level.