This year makes ten years that Keri Pierce has been working with the drill team. The team is doing several things to celebrate, including repeating some dances from the previous years as well as a special celebration through their spring show in April.

“When I was in Lindale schools as a student, there was not a drill team, but there was a need for one,” Pierce said. “I have learned so much over this last 10 years and I love seeing the impact drill team has on the lives of those involved.”

In 2004, before Pierce became the drill team sponsor, there were 13 members of the drill team. Now, there are 55 girls participating on the drill team and 54 girls on the pep squad.

“My goal was to make the drill team a “true” drill team program,” Pierce said. “I wanted to offer the opportunity to dance to as many students as possible whether or not they have studio training.”

Through the years, the drill team has been an important part of school spirit. From performing at pep rallies to dancing at halftime and cheering on the guys, the Star Steppers are integral part of what goes on under the Friday night lights.

“I have taken dance from Mrs. Keri since I was young,” junior Kaitlyn Miller said. “She has been a great teacher, and I have really learned a lot from her. I love being on the drill team and doing everything we get to do.”

The drill team is not limited to what they do during football season, however. The team stays busy year round by doing performances for the community, including their spring show, where the girls get to showcase their skills through different styles of dance.

“I love being on drill team,” junior Kaitlyn Dockery said. “Mrs. Keri really pushes us to be our best. Not only that, but she really encourages us.”