Kamryn White
Cheering on the Tigers during their first game against the Trinity Hillers
Friday nights lights wouldn’t feel complete without the cheers, chants, and stunts of our Moon Tigers cheerleading team. More than just girls standing on the sideline, the team has been working hard this season to not only pump up the crowd but also represent our school with pride.
The team starts practicing for football season in June. They’ve learned over fifty sideline cheers, along with many band dances and crowd involvement chants. Additionally, they practice tumbling, stunts, jumps, and conditioning. They continue their practices throughout the school year to stay prepared for Friday night games. This includes reviewing material and learning new stunts. These skills take not only athletic ability but also teamwork and trust since many stunts require athletes to rely on each other for strength and safety.
Cheering on the sidelines in front of the student section is an experience like no other. The adrenaline and excitement drive the girls to hype up the crowd. Cheering for the football team while being only feet away from them fosters a sense of inclusion. As fun as it is, there is also an immense amount of pressure on the girls. They are being observed by hundreds of people in the crowd and must do their best not to make any mistakes during cheers and dances. When the band starts playing, captains must quickly call out a dance for the team to perform. Being under so much pressure while simultaneously looking happy and excited is not always easy.
After football season, the cheer team also cheers for basketball. Attending two games a week makes for a busy schedule for members of the cheer team. Once basketball season arrives, the team shifts gears and brings their energy to the court. This year-round dedication means cheerleaders are constantly performing, practicing, and improving, while still showing up for their friends, family, and grades. Their commitment is a reminder that cheerleading is more than just a seasonal activity, it’s a real sport that requires constant effort and discipline.
Beyond the sidelines, the cheer team plays a vital role in school spirit. They’re leaders during pep rallies, raising energy in the gym and on the field before games. They are a huge part of spirit weeks, dressing up, spreading school spirit, and encouraging participation from the student body. Their efforts keep long-term traditions alive and ensure that students feel unified through shared moments of school pride, despite their differences.
Balancing practice, games, and school responsibilities isn’t always easy. Between academics, jobs, clubs, and other extracurricular activities, cheerleaders must thoughtfully balance their schedule. Yet, many athletes say the challenges are outweighed by the fun they have on the sidelines and the friendships they form. The bond between teammates is strong because it is built on trust and time spent working toward shared goals.
As the season continues, students can expect even more energy from the Moon Tigers cheer team. With new stunts, chants, and enthusiasm, they promise to give the school plenty of reasons to cheer.