Cheerleader’s boyfriend proposes, disguised as Lander mascot

Karlie Dean, a senior at Lander University and member of the Spirit Team’s Sassy Cat dancers, took the spotlight this Saturday for a reason she did not anticipate. Karlie was performing her usual high-energy routines alongside her team during the women’s basketball game inside Horne Arena. Little does she know, her boyfriend Dalton, had orchestrated a moment she will treasure forever.

During the game’s first timeout (approx. 1:45 p.m.), Dalton, disguised as Lander’s beloved Bearcat mascot, stepped onto the court. Completely unaware that her boyfriend was inside the suit, Karlie was stunned when the Bearcat knelt down and proposes to her in front of her teammates, family, friends, and fans. 

Their story: Karlie and Dalton’s journey began in kindergarten at Ware Shoals Primary School, where they first met and became best pals. In the classroom, their lively chatter often prompted their teacher to remind them to quiet down. Though their childhood friendship flourished, life took them in different directions—Dalton’s family moved away during third grade, and later, Karlie’s family relocated. Years passed without contact, until fate brought them together again during Karlie’s senior year of high school at Greenwood Christian. At a mutual friend’s birthday party, the pair reconnected, and their bond reignited instantly. They’ve been inseparable ever since. With the support of Lander’s Spirit Team Coach Kim Schoolfield, this heartfelt moment promises to be one for the books—a love story turned magical holiday season surprise.