The meeting began with a introduction of the Hall of Fame Parkets, a cheerleading group with deep roots in the St. Louis Park community. The attending members, including Cindy Lubet Kaland, Mary Bashet Miller, Teresa Bisher, and Liz Track, recounted their time as Parkets, sharing stories that spanned from the early days of cheering for the Vikings in 1964 to the transition into a professional cheerleading service in the 1980s. Their anecdotes painted a picture of a group that was both selective and dedicated, with only a small fraction of hopefuls making it onto the team each year.

Cindy Lubet Kaland, who joined the Parkets in 1964, reminisced about the excitement of being part of the first group to cheer for the Vikings, while Teresa Bisher recalled being among the last to cheer at the Met Stadium. The cheerleaders emphasized the challenges they faced, particularly the demanding practice schedule that extended year-round, with sessions held twice a week.

One of the more striking elements of their journey was the custom-made costumes, crafted by a seamstress named Miss Gibbs, which the cheerleaders fondly remembered for their intricate details of leather and sequins. The rigorous practice system included a point system for attendance. Some former cheerleaders noted the absence of certain practices, like weigh-ins, which sparked surprise and disapproval when mentioned in the context of other groups.

Weather conditions during performances, particularly at the Met Stadium, presented significant challenges. The cheerleaders recounted how they braved freezing temperatures, donning layers of clothing and using large air moon boots to keep warm. During particularly harsh games, the team devised strategies to minimize exposure, such as taking turns performing.

Among the highlights of their tenure was the opportunity to perform at a Super Bowl in Houston, Texas, a memory that stood out for its grandeur and the contrast it provided to their usual performances. The cheerleaders recalled flying to the event, courtesy of a former player’s assistance, and shared the cultural differences they observed, particularly in comparison to the Miami Dolphins cheerleaders.

The Parkets’ connection to the Vikings began in 1964 when the team owner, Max Winter, invited them to cheer at games, offering $50 per game. This professional relationship marked the beginning of a longstanding tradition that lasted until the early 1980s. While the Parkets primarily cheered for the Vikings, they also performed at high school games, maintaining a strong bond with the local community.

As the meeting progressed, the cheerleaders reflected on the lessons learned and the camaraderie that developed over their years together. They highlighted the discipline, teamwork, and perseverance that their experiences instilled in them. Encouraging current students, one cheerleader emphasized the importance of pursuing dreams with dedication, stating, “If you see something just go for it. Put everything you’ve got into it because what you see and what you can see you shall achieve.”

The cheerleaders’ stories offered a glimpse into a bygone era, filled with camaraderie, challenges, and triumphs. Their shared memories served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community support and the enduring bonds formed through shared experiences.