MOBILE, Ala. (WPMI) When the Saints exit the field at halftime, you might want to wait a few minutes before go for the nachos and soda. You don't want to miss the other team that takes the field.
That team is the beautiful cheerleading team the Saints call their "Sainsations."
And if you look closer, much closer, you'll see Jessica McCray of Mount Vernon!
"My first year auditioning for the team was the first year the New Orleans Saints won the Super Bowl," said Jessica.
Local 15 caught up with the Satsuma High School graduate when the New Orleans Saints brought their junior training camp to Mobile.
"We're trying to get them to start young with a positive attitude," she said, in front of an enthusiastic group of youngsters. "We want to keep them focused in school and striving toward all of their goals. Don't let anyone knock them down. They can do it. If I can do it, they've got this!"
At that time, Jessica was crossing her fingers in hope that her team would be playing this Sunday. Well, that didn't happen.
The saints won't be in the Super Bowl. But Jessica will.
When the call went out for dancers to perform during this year's halftime show in the Superdome, Jessica did what she did to become a Saintsations. She tried out and gave it her best.
And that's why, this Sunday at Halftime, Jessica McCray of Mt. Vernon, Alabama will be dancing in the Superdome with Beyonce.
"It's something I cherish," said Jessica. "I love the looks on the little girl's faces knowing that I was one once. It's deep, seeing their faces. It's an honor."
There are brains behind the beauty, by the way.
Jessica has taken a break from chasing her degree in cardioresperatory care at the University of South Alabama, but fully intends to continue after her experience with the Saints. She's also an instructor at Ms. Daphne's Cheernastics in Satsuma.
Jessica is already rehearsing for the show, and is scheduled to meet Beyonce Thursday.
