In a groundbreaking move, TCU (Texas Christian University) has made history with Brittani McLaurin, the first Black Spirit Director to lead the renowned TCU Showgirls. McLaurin’s appointment marks a pivotal shift for the university’s cheerleading and dance programs, infusing them with fresh leadership and a vision for greater diversity and inclusivity. Her arrival has already sparked a sense of pride and inspiration, particularly for the Black dancers within the team who have long felt isolated.
A Dream Come True: Leading with Pride
When Brittani McLaurin took the role of Spirit Director for the TCU Showgirls, it wasn’t just a career milestone; it was a personal victory. McLaurin expressed the emotional significance of the moment, calling it “a dream come true.” As the first Black director in the program’s history, she has brought a renewed sense of pride and a fresh perspective to the team. Her leadership has garnered immense respect from the dancers, especially for her dedication to inclusivity and excellence.
“It feels amazing,” McLaurin said in an interview. “I couldn’t have asked for a better group of athletes to lead. We’re building something bigger than ourselves.” Her positive energy and commitment to her athletes have been felt throughout the TCU spirit program, setting the stage for further success.
Breaking Ground in a Traditionally Homogenous Environment
Despite being in a field traditionally dominated by white athletes and directors, McLaurin’s journey is a testament to perseverance and vision. There’s a long history of Black women in spirit programs, but not many have reached the level of leadership that McLaurin has. As the Spirit Director, McLaurin oversees 103 athletes, making her role a powerful one at a university with a growing diversity but still-limited representation in the spirit programs.
McLaurin acknowledges the weight of her position, saying, “It’s important to have someone who understands what it’s like to be the only one. That loneliness is hard to talk about, but it’s real.” Her presence is particularly significant for dancers like Alison Hodges, the only Black member of the Showgirls for the past two years, who shares that McLaurin’s leadership brings a sense of relief and validation to those who’ve felt overlooked.
Inspiring Diversity and Change on the Showgirls
Under McLaurin’s direction, the TCU Showgirls have seen a remarkable shift in their dynamics. The diversity within the team is more pronounced, not just in race, but in how members see their roles within the university’s athletic programs. McLaurin’s leadership style is empowering, and it has inspired many athletes to believe in their potential in ways they never had before.
One of McLaurin’s goals is to ensure that more Black women consider applying for the TCU Showgirls, knowing that they now have someone who can relate to their struggles and successes. “I know how it feels to be the only one, and I want to change that for future generations,” McLaurin shared. Her drive to open doors for others speaks volumes about her commitment to creating lasting change within the program.
The Showgirls’ Legacy: Representing Change and Pride
The TCU Showgirls, now in their 48th season, have always been a symbol of spirit and pride at the university. However, under McLaurin’s leadership, they are becoming even more representative of the changing face of college athletics. McLaurin’s influence has led to a more inclusive and empowered spirit team, where all athletes feel valued for who they are, not just for their performances.
As McLaurin and her athletes take the field during high-profile events like homecoming, they are not just performing; they are representing a shift in the culture of TCU athletics. With McLaurin at the helm, the TCU Showgirls are ready to set new standards, blending tradition with change in a way that is both inspiring and transformative.
