This year, while they only have three members, the football cheer team has been hard at work, going to away games and, of course, every home game. For football, the team consists of Jayden Jenkins (12), Maggie Gallagher (11), and Zoe Kraemer (9).
This tiny yet mighty team of cheerleaders is coached by Allie Moon. Ms. Moon teaches special education at the intermediate school. Ms. Moon was very kind to answer some questions about her team’s progress this year. These questions were the following:
- How is the team doing this year?
- What are the fan-favorite cheers so far?
- What are the team’s biggest challenges this season?
- How are things looking for basketball cheer?
In response to the first question, Ms. Moon said, “This year, the football cheerleading team started strong with summer conditioning and team bonding. We even attended a bungee fitness class for a fun workout and to loosen up before the season. One of the highlights of our summer was having the Mineral Area College Cheer team visit for a two-day clinic. They not only helped us improve our form and confidence but also taught us how to perform a prep stunt without a back spot and even a two-man cartwheel. It was such a great experience that brought our team closer together and helped us grow stronger as cheerleaders.”
In response to the second question, Ms. Moon said, “Some of the new cheers we’ve learned include “Black, Gold, and White—Fight, Blackcats, Fight!” and “Black, Gold, FHS!” which features a handstand into a shoulder sit. These have quickly become team favorites and really get the crowd going at games.”
In response to the third question, Ms. Moon said, “Our biggest challenge this year has been having a smaller team. Even with fewer members, we’ve stayed positive and focused on bringing energy to every game. Everyone has worked hard to memorize all the cheers, improve technique, and keep school spirit high.”
In response to the final question, Ms. Moon said, “We’re very excited for basketball season! We’ll be gaining five new members, which will help us add more stunts and volume to our routines. With new faces, upgraded skills, and lots of excitement, we’re ready to make basketball season even more spirited and fun for the crowd.”
Overall, the cheerleading team is in great spirits, and having seen them performing at the homecoming game, I can confidently say that they are headed toward great things!
