Confidence. Athleticism. Dedication. Teamwork. These are all things cheerleaders must embody to be the best they can be. Sophomore Brooke Johnson understands this and has decided to return to cheerleading after a successful year of cheerleading last year.
“I don’t have a specific thing I love about cheerleading. But I love everything about cheerleading,” Johnson said.
Johnson is an upcoming essential for PNH cheerleading this year, bringing energy and motivation to the team.
“She is a kind, genuine soul. She can make anyone laugh even if they’re in a bad mood. She just knows how to put a smile on your face and brighten up your day,” said sophomore Tylar Troupe, who is also on the cheerleading team. “She loves to yap, and I love that about her.”
Having a positive attitude and the ability to get along with others is important in cheerleading because cheerleaders have to put in long hours, work with people they may not know or like, and perform in front of a crowd of people all while keeping up with school.
“Pressure? I’d say grade wise, we have to maintain a 3.0 and can’t fail any classes or we will be benched, but it’s never been a problem [for me],“ Johnson said.
Johnson has worked hard during the summer to gain a spot on varsity cheer and participated in a variety of camps over the summer with the squad. Their recent camp was the cheer clinic on Sept. 6 where members of the cheerleading squad taught K-8 students two chants and then cheered with them at the game later that evening..
“The cheer clinic was outstanding. Watching the girls look up to us or want to be like us when they all grow up was a different feeling,” Johnson said. “During the camp, we did amazing. The girls were outstanding.“
Besides being able to be a role model, cheerleaders also work together to psych up and entertain the crowd at games.
“The most memorable moment would probably be when we are stunting…definitely when we’re at our football games and we trip out,” Troupe said.
Johnson has adapted to the new environment well, and is embracing the challenges by being prepared and staying focused
“Always make sure you know your material, stay on your work or you will be a benched cheerleader and you will not have fun while doing it,” Johnson said.
