It’s often debated which activities are considered sports, and that battle continues with Cheerleading. Although it has all of the requirements of being a true sport, for some that still isn’t enough. “Most people don’t see how it [cheerleading] has developed over the years,” says Senior Captain Mary Paige Fournier, “it’s competitive just like any other sport and we put just as much effort and work into a game or practice.”

   “We have the longest season of all the sports,” senior Erica Krueger added, fighting on behalf of her fellow Cheerleaders, “we have physical contact, we workout in the weight room, we compete, we have uniforms and we have the most injuries.”

   Stepping away from this long-lasting argument, there have been additional aspects incorporated into the 2009-2010 Cheerleading Squad season.  “This is our first year in the weight room and working out through the summer,” Krueger stated.  This is also the first year without a tryout.  “I feel like we could’ve had a bigger team, which means more stunting options and maybe new uniforms,” senior Paige Medley added. The uniform controversy has always been a topic of discussion.  Some of the girls have expressed their desire for new uniforms.  “We’ve had the same ones for eight years—just saying,” Krueger noted.  Also, the squad has been assigned to cheer for the girls’ basketball games as well, a new facet of their schedule.  “At first I didn’t really like the idea of it, but I don’t mind cheering for them…they deserve just as much support as the Varsity boys,” Fournier commented.

   Girls looking to join the squad next year can look forward to these work habits, including working together, “at least three times a week,” senior Becca Belcher claims.  When asked why it’s important for girls to be a part of Cheerleading, senior Captain Kayla Slabaugh commented, “it’s fun to cheer people on and find people with common interests as you.”  Other reasons noted have been the satisfaction of a sense of accomplishment and the forming of a new family.

   The coaching has been praised as well.  Fournier admits that, “I think the team loves our coach [Coach Susie Hough].  She’s an excellent coach.  She definitely disciplines us and we all respect her for that.  Without her, I don’t think we’d have such a great team.”

   Those who are considering joining the squad and incoming freshmen who also share that interest should consider the possibility. New girls are always needed and the help is welcome.  Continue going strong girls and here’s to a successful remainder of the season!