As the new school year starts to pick up, new clubs and organizations are beginning to blossom across Florida A&M University’s campus. Saniya Bassette, a third-year business admiration scholar from Newport News, Virginia, is the vice president, co-founder and creative director of one of FAMU’s newest clubs, Strike Stomp ‘N Shake.
Chartered Sept. 11, this club aims to be a breath of fresh air for the students on campus. Bassette’s love for stomp ’n shake stems from her growing up in the region where it originated. When she came to Florida, she realized quickly stomp ’n shake wasn’t a style of cheer that is universal, so she wanted to change that. “It’s what people from out of state want that are used to that,” Bassette said.
She wanted to create a space for people from out of the state who are looking for a more inclusive team to be a part of.
“I like the feeling in my body when I’m stomping and shaking,” Bassette said. Stomp ’N Shake is a mixture of cheer, dance and stepping with a touch of majorette and hip-hop themes. After participating in both traditional and competition cheer, she believes this type helps people to gain confidence and find their groove.
It also allows lots of room for creativity within cheer making.
“Nothing has made me feel as vibrant and confident as stomp ’n shake has,” she said.
She made the decision to make the club co-ed because she believes guys will bring a certain cadence and vibe to the team.
“We wanted to make sure it was open to be involved,” Bassette said. She and her club co-founder, Kyla Pease, want to make sure that everyone is allowed the same opportunities.
“Strike Stomp ‘N Shake promotes diversity and equality, so everyone regardless of gender can join,” Pease said.
In creating this club, Bassette hopes members will gain unity, community and mental and physical discipline. In its first year, her plans for the club include campus and Southern outreach, cheer showcases and collaborations with other cheer and step organizations.
Members can look forward to on-campus events and cheering at basketball games.
Strike Stomp ‘N Shake plans to have its interest meeting on Sept. 25, and tryouts are to be announced. Only 12 members will be selected for the 24-25 season.