Nov. 17, 2010

WACO, Texas - Baylor's newest intercollegiate sport, competitive cheer, will kick off its inaugural season with a mock meet at 4 p.m. Sunday at the Ferrell Center.

Head coach Karry Forsythe leads Baylor's 19th varsity sport, along with assistant coaches Brian Doyle and Lexie Badali. The Bears' inaugural roster consists of 28 student-athletes, 24 of which are freshmen.

Baylor is the first Big 12 Conference member to implement a varsity competitive cheer program. The Bears were ranked fourth in the National Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Association preseason coaches' poll.

Baylor's first competition is Dec. 3 at Fairmont State in Fairmont, W.V., followed by a trip to College Park, Md. to take on preseason No. 1 Maryland on Dec. 5. The Bears' first home meet is slated for Jan. 23 against Oregon.

Sunday's mock meet is open to the public and there is no charge for admission.