09/24/2009
Spirit Industry Trade Association (SITA)
Tara Zinslen, Executive Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For further information, quotes, photo ops, call (800) 477-8868 or (910) 488-4618 or email cheer@cheerltd.com

SITA CELEBRATES 5TH ANNIVERSARY

On September 24, 2004, representatives from nine of the country’s leading cheer and dance companies met in Orlando, Florida, to discuss the formation of a new, innovative association to benefit the cheer and dance market. Later to be named SITA, The Spirit Industry Trade Association was founded by representatives from America’s Best Championships, Athletic Championships, American Cheer and Dance Academy, AmeriCheer, COA Cheer & Dance, Cheer Ltd., Coastal Corporation, ECDA, and UPA Cheer & Dance. These nine charter members discussed the purpose, structure, goals, committees and direction this new found association should take during the two day meeting.

“I remember the day vividly,” says Lisa Saline, President of UPA Cheer & Dance and SITA’s inaugural chairperson. “Nine companies were sitting around a table in Orlando, FL, discussing the vast benefits of an association geared specifically for the Spirit Industry. Conversations were flowing until the news came of a pending hurricane. Attendees quickly changed their travel plans and all made it home safely before Hurricane Jeanne arrived. It was a very exciting day.”

Though the weekend was cut short by an impending hurricane, the meeting proved to be successful as it set the framework for an organization that would grow quickly and impact the industry in big ways. Currently SITA has over 100 members that represent over 10 countries.

Since its inception, SITA has developed several cornerstone programs that are making a difference in the spirit community. SITA is most proud of its philanthropic initiatives launched in 2006 and 2007. SITA’s Helping Hand and SITA’s Relief Fund have contributed over ,000 in donations and products to the spirit industry. SITA also created the Spirit Industry Awards and Spirit Industry Hall of Fame to recognize businesses and individuals who are raising the bar of excellence in their work in the industry. These programs, in addition to quarterly networking and planning meetings, give companies a platform to share ideas and contribute to the overall strength and growth of cheerleading and dance.

For more information regarding The Spirit Industry Trade Association and how to become a member, please visit www.spiritindustrytrade.com.

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SITA – Where Your Voice Is Heard!

About the Spirit Industry Trade Association (SITA) - The Spirit Industry Trade Association (SITA) seeks to provide networking opportunities for US and International spirit companies, associations, gyms, and judging professionals to exchange ideas and share benefits while working toward the positive development of the spirit industry.