Cheerleading is an activity that is based purely around school spirit. Cheerleading can be very different depending on the school or the type of squad. It is fun, but can also be very difficult at times. Cheerleaders learn a lot about the sport and themselves.

Emma Frank is the captain of the Jefferson Morgan Varsity Cheerleading Squad. She is a senior and has been cheering all four years of her high school career. When asked what she has learned about herself throughout all these years of cheering she said, “ I have learned that being positive and spirited, even in the face of defeat, makes everything more fun. I have also learned that being a part of a team is one of the best parts of high school, and it’s a great way to make amazing friends and memories.”

A losing team is always difficult to cheer for. It can be hard to find spirit and happiness when your team is losing, but cheerleaders always find a way. Learning to find the good in a ad situation is not only a skill used in cheerleading, but can be used in everyday life.

Randi Agnew is a freshman and this is her first year as a part of the J-M Varsity Cheerleading Squad, though she has cheered for the Junior High Squad. “Cheer has taught me that you don’t have to be big to be part of anything big. Eleven girls practicing on the gym floor for hours is enough to build a family.”

Riley Payo is the co-captain of the cheer squad and says that, “I would have to say that I’ve learned to just have fun and to appreciate the time spent with my squad.” Riley is a junior and have been a part of the squad throughout her entire high school career.

Katrina Schmolke is a junior and a member of the cheerleading squad. “I learned my own strength. Starting out in 2nd/3rd grade, I really didn’t think cheerleading would be hard. As I’ve grown, I realized how much you have to trust one another. People think that cheer is not a sport,” said Schmolke. “You have to be strong in order to be a cheerleader. You have to learn how to work in different positions, that may be out of your comfort zone. You must stay strong, and be able to accept criticism. And besides, not just anyone can lift another girl over their heads.”