Tryouts For Who's Cheering For The Talons

There's a new football team landing in Tulsa. The Tulsa Talons start their arena football season here in April. And what would football be without cheerleaders? The Talons don't plan on

Saturday, January 22nd 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

There's a new football team landing in Tulsa. The Tulsa Talons start their arena football season here in April. And what would football be without cheerleaders? The Talons don't plan on finding out they held tryouts Saturday.

At 28, Sonette Spence may be a stay-at-home mom, but she still likes to dance. And she's found just the place to do it on the sidelines for the new Tulsa Talons that is, if she makes the squad. It's try-out day and there's about 50 hopefuls for the 20 spots.

"I've been cheering since I was in the 8th grade I cheered at NSU and I've coached this is something to keep me in shape, it's a good workout," says Spence.

Sonette and the other girls just met last Saturday to learn the routine. That's where they found out what lies ahead if they make it that includes going to eight home games and practicing twice a week.

"We get paid, but not much... nothing to write home to mom about. Everyone still has to have a full-time job. If it was free I would still do it because it's fun," says Spence.

For some candidates, the whole family is involved. Julie Thrash's husband came along for support.

"Anything I can help with I'm here and available," says Evan Thrash.

But inside the try-out room no family is allowed. Only a roomful of judges and a few potential cheerers at a time. For Sonnette the pressure of performing is off now all she has to do is wait.

"I think I did good I don't think I bobble - did I? I don't think I did. I don't know," says Spence. "We will know today if I don't get a call by 6 p.m. I didn't make it.," says Spence.

The judges say choosing the squad is tough because everyone seems to have the Talon spirit.

Sonette did get that call this afternoon she'll be on the sidelines when the Talons take the field in April.