Behind the Scenes at Candlestick Park
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To prepare for a game, Gold Rush team captain Melissa practices several days a week on her own and meets with the squad the day before the game for a six to seven hour rehearsal. Being able to perform in front of 64,000 49er faithful is indescribable, she says. (Michelle Le / Special to the Chronicle)
Melissa joined the Gold Rush Cheerleaders three years ago and was chosen as captain in her second season. The girls on the squad look up to her both off the field and on. (Michelle Le / Special to the Chronicle)
Leading a squad of 32 girls through a 10-hour game day filled with 42 different memorized routines all performed in three inch heels, Melissa steps up to her leadership role as team captain. (Michelle Le / Special to the Chronicle)
