One of the MVC’s absolute favorite things about the month of February- outside from the Super bowl- is the annual Minnesota Vikings Cheerleader Banquet. The MVC Banquet provides the team with a wonderful opportunity to catch up with each other during the off-season and recap the season. The 2008 banquet was one to remember; not only did we celebrate the team’s successes, but we were able to commend our Head Coach Tami on 10 years of remarkable leadership.
This year, the banquet was sponsored the Minneapolis North Crowne Plaza Hotel, and we are very grateful to them for their excellent cuisine and service. At the beginning of the night, the MVC assembled to enjoy dinner with one another, and watch the Year End Video- graciously provided by Chad Ryburn and Ted Kopacek. There were special presentations by each of our 5 small teams, our Head Coach Tami, the lovely and talented MVC staff, and the team captains. It was great to reflect on year that included more than 350 appearances in the Minnesota community, the successful launch of the A* Team and the All Star programs, and countless other memories on and off the field. Our 2007 Pro Bowl Representative and 3rd Captain Laura also inspired us by sharing her experiences in Hawaii. We typically end the night with awards; congratulations to the following women on their outstanding achievements on the team and in the community:
The Most Valuable MVC: Laura
The Angel Award: Brita
Fitness Achievement: Jessie
Best Overall Dancer: Kara
Vikings Children Fund Support Award: Sarah
Community Service Award: Sarah
Rookie of the Year: Krisandra
Whether it’s community service, fitness achievement, or dance ability, our coach Tami is constantly pushing us to become the “Whole Package.”
The evening is always very memorable, and sometimes bittersweet as it provides us with a chance to say goodbye to retiring team members. We wish them all success as they pursue new opportunities. The team is especially sad to see 2007 Pro Bowl Representative Laura retire- she has been an outstanding team member for the past six seasons, and leader for the past three.
One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity to thank and congratulate Tami on her 10th year in position as Head Coach and Coordinator of the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders. Tami continually highlights the growth and success of the MVC, and it was great to turn the tables to celebrate the woman responsible for the team’s success.
At the end of the evening, Tami announced the captains for the 2008 Season. The returning captains are Rachel (6th season), Kara (4th season), Sarah (4th season), and Pamela (5th season), and Glamour Captain Melissa (4th season). The group is happy and excited to welcome Krisandra (2nd season) as a new captain for the 2008 season. The captains are grateful for the opportunity to work with a talented staff and cheer again for the best team in the NFL!
Overall, the MVC had a fantastic season in 2007, and we are excited to kickoff the 2008 season! Open auditions are just around the corner…
Pamela 5th Year Veteran and Team Captain