Behind all the underrecognition that cheer teams receive, they still continue to be the heart and center of athletic games. The Pembroke Pines Charter High School’s Lady Jags Cheerleading team creates a spark that wakes up the school’s spirit not only within the crowd but also on the field.
High school cheerleading has been the center of debate for years, with many questioning whether it should be recognized as a sport or not.
Senior and Captain Victoria Eason comments, “Something that a lot of people do not really notice about cheer is the fact that it can be very draining to the body. It’s very physical, just like every other sport. There is also a lot of cardio as well.”
While they are often pictured as “background noise” and not noticed for their contribution to their school, they are actually the heartbeat that keeps school spirit alive. Long, sweaty practices, hours spent memorizing routines, and body aches are what build these girls to their potential.
Marley Alexander, a junior on the cheerleading team, mentions how “[this sport] has a huge impact on the overall atmosphere at school events because we always set the energy for the crowd by hyping them up. It’s important we trust each other to do that.”
Leslie Mesa, the Lady Jags Cheer head coach, emphasizes the importance of team bonding. Discussing how cheerleading not only impacts the atmosphere but also the girls themselves and their mental well-being.
“I know [cheerleading] gives them confidence in themselves and sisterhood together. They always have each other’s back,” Mesa notes.
With every flip, stumble, and toss that they perfect, the Lady Jags are able to prove just how much they trust one another. They work to perfect their routines not only for school but also for the competitions that they take part in. They strive not only for perfection but also with the intention to leave a name for themselves.
Marcia Wooden, the Lady Jags assistant coach, breaks down exactly what the competitions are like for the team and how participating in the Broward County Cheerleading competition creates a competitive landscape. Mentioning how every competition strengthens their team bonding due to the sport requirements for extensive physical and high technical training, complete trust, and communication.
She adds, “Our athletes spend months learning difficult stunts and choreography. So they naturally develop a deeper and faster connection. Our high-pressure environment with shared goals holds our team accountable to each other.”
The “background noise,” in other words, cheerleading teams, are the heart and soul of many sports teams, even if they do not compete in the game. They highlight unity and energy and bring spirit to every game and competition.
