Cheerleaders' modest outfits

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Associated Press Writer

University of Idaho cheerleaders will unveil their new, more demure, uniforms at the home football game Saturday against Nevada.

Complaints that the previous uniforms were too short and revealing prompted the change.

Shelly Robson, adviser to the school's Spirit Squad, said the new uniforms better represent the university, which is in Moscow, Idaho, about 80 miles southeast of Spokane, Wash.

"As a public institution, we are responsive to the community that supports us and we are stewards of our image," Robson said. "The old uniforms were not appropriate for or reflective of Idaho."

The original outfits, first worn during the Sept. 6 game against Idaho State, were shiny and featured halter tops and very short black skirts with white trim. They were similar to what NFL cheerleaders might wear, and cost $4,200 to equip the 19 women on the squad.

Some spectators complained about them being too skimpy, although others liked them, Dean of Students Bruce Pitman has said.

Cassie Helm of Liberty Lake, Wash., the cheerleader coach who was responsible for the uniforms, said they were intended to promote physical fitness, but she resigned after the clothing was criticized.

The cheerleaders then worked the Sept. 13 game against Western Michigan wearing black volleyball shorts and football jerseys.

The new two-piece uniforms are primarily black with silver accents. The tops are also a halter-style with silver accents and a silver "I" on the chest; the skirts are black with a wide silver band along the bottom, but are about 6 inches longer than the earlier versions.

They cost a total of $2,200, raised from private donors, and were to arrive from the maker on Friday, the school said.

Cheerleaders have declined interviews since shortly after the complaints were made. In a news release, Spirit Squad member and new coach Jessica Gudgel said the team made the change to deflect attention from its outfits and place it back on the football team.

Unfortunately, Idaho (1-4) has lost three straight in yet another losing campaign.

"We invite our fans and critics alike to join us with a sportsmanlike approach to these events," Gudgel said. "The old uniforms simply didn't work out. It's time now for everyone to let us get back to what we do, which is to be strong, effective representatives of the University of Idaho."

Gudgel said Spirit Squad members were consulted about the new uniforms and approved of them.

The squad is funded by the Associated Students of the University of Idaho.

This will be the second uniform adjustment for the school this fall. Earlier this month the football team removed the UI logo sewn onto the seat of the pants after fans complained.

By NICHOLAS K. GERANIOS

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