Hotshot Diaries: Heather

Starting at about 3:00 pm we are on the field preparing for another exciting home game. All of us girls a little anxious and even more excited for game time to begin. Rehearsing always seems to lighten our nerves and help us feel that much more prepared for the night?s performances. As we begin practice we also correct mistakes here and there and answer last minute questions that may come up. Girls are getting more comfortable with the upcoming game?s performances and, as always, crack jokes whenever possible to keep our lively mood. After practice is over and we have gone through each dance we feel well prepared and we head back to the locker room to get fixed up. Before the game starts we always get the opportunity to be a part of tailgating to sign autographs for our awesome fans. It is such an amazing feeling when we get fans and part of the crowd who come to us for our autographs and to share with us a little bit of conversation. Nothing beats the feeling when we get the most entertaining young kids who are nothing but ecstatic for the night?s game. You can see it in their eye that they love being there and love the opportunity to visit with us. We just hope they know how much we appreciate that and the idea of them interested in our autographs. Now we head back to the locker room for last minute touch-ups and preparation for the game to start. Nerves build up again and excitement settles in. The moment we head to the tunnel and get to help welcome the team to the field we feel right at home. The more intense the game, the more you can feel the crowds support throughout the arena. Being a part of these events really help us see just how supportive and caring the crowd is and how much of an honor it is to be part of such an activity. The game begins and it starts off a little rocky. Despite the beginning there is never a doubt for our Burn players and we never give up faith. The Hanigan Hotshots have the honor of performing in front of the crowd and never have a dull moment. With the continuous support and non-stop encouragement we without a doubt come back and reach the Tri-Cities Fever. Not only do we match the Fever?s touchdowns but we undoubtedly surpass them. Now with even more intensity within the crowd we have the opportunity to show our last performances and love the feeling in the air. It doesn?t get any better than when you are out on the field and can hear the cheers coming from the audience. When the end of the game approaches we are more than happy with the results and so proud of our team. It doesn?t stop just because the clock ran out though, we also get the chance to stay after and sign autographs after the game and share common high points of the game. Fans are so proud of their players and we can see it everywhere. With another successful game and so much more honorable ways to discuss it fans move through the line and visit with us and the players. We then leave the field anxious once again very excited for the next game to come. -- Heather