The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

I Was A Cheerleader For One Short Year

by Dessa Rodeffer, Publisher/Owner

When I was in Stronghurst elementary school we had cheerleading in 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grade. It was exciting to watch, exciting to be a part of, and a big part of our school spirit.

I tried out in 5th grade and didn't make it, but admit, I was terrible and completely understood I wasn't the best.

I practiced hard the next year knowing just three would be chosen and it would be tough to make it.

I wanted so badly to be able to do cheers as a team member and to pep up our crowd and back our boys who were playing so hard.

I would never have wanted our school not to have cheerleaders just because I didn't make it. Also, it does take a lot of work and committment to prepare yourself for floor cheers.

I think it is an important part of school spirit and morale building.

I remember the night before try-outs in 6th grade. I even can remember what room I was sleeping in at home at that age. I remember getting out of bed and looking out of the window into the dark sky full of stars and wishing on one.

Then I said a prayer that God would help me do my best that I might have a chance.

Still, it was to my surprise when the votes were in that next day, after we each tried out in front of the fifth and sixth grade so they could choose "their cheer leaders", that I was one of them.

I couldn't have been more humbled and thrilled.

There is a lot of energy in students, and it takes a lot of energy to cheer as well as to play sports. But, it is constructive use of energy. I have found those who fill their schedules with helping others have a more rewarding life.

Behind many successful people, you will find a cheerleader, an encourager, and it is pretty dull in life when there is no one behind you cheering you on.