Sapulpa Ping Pings
Ever wonder how the pom and dance team at Sapulpa High School got their name? Known statewide as the Sapulpa Ping Pings, coach Molly Heritage and coach Grace Folger provided the story behind the best name in the state.
“The Ping Pings were founded during the 1971-1972 school year as another group to foster school spirit at athletic events. The name came about after a long, chilly outdoor practice when one of the girls commented that they were bouncing around like ping pong balls,” Heritage said. “The ping pings have been around since the 70s and are extremely active in our community. The girls set examples for young girls to look up to and several of them looked up to the pings when they were younger. Having this following in the program helps with the drive and love that the girls have for this team. For lots of them, this has been a dream that they have been chasing for years and they are finally living it!”
The seniors take their responsibility serious and love leading the team.
“Our seniors this season are Brynlee Clingenpeel, Brynlee Pinson, Lucy Puckett, Iris Puckett, Shirin Mortazavi, Peyton Leonard, and Jordyn Pulley. Each of our seniors set a strong example for the team and act as mentors to our younger team members. Our seniors are very important to the dynamic of our team, and it is a joy having a group of such fantastic young ladies,” said coach Heritage.
The competition team consists of 16 members, all working together and being on the same page is the top priority.
“Our girls are improving every single day, and we are thrilled to see all of their hard work pay off,” coach Heritage and coach Folger explained. “Our girls are in season year-round! Currently their schedule is more hectic than usual with football season in full swing, but we begin competition season very soon! We have a few competitions this upcoming fall in October and November which will prepare us for our State Competition in December! After state the girls have a fast turnaround time to get prepared for our national competition in Florida in February. After that they will prepare for their end of year showcase, auditions, and then enjoy the beginning of summer and start all over again!”
For those young girls waiting their turn to become a Ping Ping, coach Heritage says, “chase your dreams.”
“Work hard, and never stop dancing. Dance is an art form that the Sapulpa Ping Pings have been perfecting for decades and although we sometimes can take things a little too serious, dance is an art form that is supposed to be expressive so have fun with it!”
