By: Jessica Baker
They tighten their laces and start stretching. Only minutes separate thousands of roaring fans from their nervous butterflies. The smell of grilled burgers and freshly cut grass fills the air like a familiar change in the seasons.
It's time for college football. And in this moment, cheerleaders everywhere are taking their first steps toward a day to remember.
The moment the rookies' crisp, white cheer shoes touch the sidelines, they've officially joined the team and taken the field as the ambassadors they were destined to be. Earning those letters hasn't been easy, and their preparation is now being put to the ultimate test: pumping up thousands of fans on game day.
But they're not alone.
For the vets, expectations are high, and their first steps toward the sidelines are hasty and confident. They know the rush of excitement they'll get when it's time for kickoff. The rookies are watching them closely. It's time step up, and it's time to show out.
Applause.
Quick feet, cleats and hands trample grass as the cheerleaders tumble and run flags down the field in front the of the football team's massive huddle.
It's go time.
It's the first game of the season. The energy from the stands and the fans is palpable. Not many things compare to college game day--especially the first game of the year.
Enjoy it.