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Hundreds Expected For Ravens Cheerleading Tryouts

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- If you've ever dreamed about cheering for your favorite football team, Saturday will be your chance. The Baltimore Ravens will hold their annual cheerleader tryouts.

Ron Matz reports there's something new this year that you won't want to miss.

It's a big rush performing in front of 70,000 Ravens fans. But it's a lot tougher making the cut.

"We are having cheerleading tryouts for our team for next season. We are so excited. We expect 200-300 people, especially coming off such a strong season last year and moving forward into this year," said Meaghan, cheerleader for five years. "I hope this will be my sixth season. Every year the veterans have to try out. It never gets old. It's still nerve-wrecking and scary to go out in front of that panel of judges and prove what you have year after year."

Some 300 hopefuls will come to Merritt's Downtown Athletic Club Saturday. Making the team is a commitment.

"Being part of this team is like a lifestyle change. We put in so much time and effort in everything we do. The charity appearances, T.V., media, game days and practices it's on and off the field. Come out and try out for our team. It will be the best experience of your life," said Courtney, cheerleader for two years.

The Ravens have the only co-ed cheer squad in the NFL.

"We highly encourage males to come out, especially if you have any previous cheerleading experience in high school or college. You must be 18 to try out for the team. We are the only co-ed squad and they really add so much excitement to our game days," said Meaghan.

There's something new this year, a special cheerleader event March 26 at the Downtown Sheraton Hotel.

"For the first time in Ravens history we're doing a live event called 'Making the Cut.' It's on March 26 at the Sheraton downtown. Fans can come and watch and cheer on their favorite cheerleaders and they'll pick the squad right there in front of everyone," said Courtney.

Cheering and chasing the dream.

There are 60 members of the Ravens Cheerleading squad. Saturday's tryouts begin at 9:30 a.m.

For more information, click here.

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