50 Years of Spirit: Marlow High School’s Bootleggers Drill Team Celebrates Golden Anniversary

by Erin Woodard

This fall marks a golden milestone for one of Marlow High School’s proudest traditions as the Bootleggers drill team proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary. Founded in 1975 by a couple who moved to Marlow from Lawton, the Bootleggers have evolved into a cherished symbol of school spirit, precision, and excellence in performance.
The name “Bootleggers” was thoughtfully chosen by the original team members to reflect their commitment to embracing and representing Marlow's Outlaw theme. The inaugural team included just 26 dedicated girls and drew inspiration from the vibrant dance and performance style of Southern Methodist University in Texas.
Since their inception, the Bootleggers have made an unforgettable impact on the Marlow community, regularly performing at football games, parades, and various events, thus becoming a legacy of pride for generations of students and families alike.
In honor of this remarkable 50-year journey, organizers are calling upon all Bootlegger alumni to reunite and celebrate the legacy they’ve helped to build. Whether you were part of the inaugural 1975 lineup or danced under the Friday night lights in more recent years, this is a special opportunity to share in the joy and history of the team.
Alumni can find more information about the celebration by joining the “Bootlegger 50 Year Anniversary” Facebook page, visiting the Bootleggers' booth at the Fourth of July festivities in Marlow, or reaching out via email at tivory@marlow.k12.ok.us.
This fall promises to be a heartfelt homecoming for all who have worn the Bootlegger name with pride, as the team reflects on its rich history and looks forward to many more years of tradition and excellence.