As with many other sports during these times, the cheer team has been dealing with the COVID-19 situation as well. 

Two of the freshmen on the JV cheer team, Lindzie Devney and Ava Thilges, both believed that the experience was different than what they expected.

The cheer team has been doing everything they can, even with the situation that the world is dealing with right now.

“They are so sweet and they help out a lot,” Devney said. “They also give good criticism which helps even further when practicing.”

Thilges tried to stay focused on the positives and her goals this year.

“I’ve always done dance and I’ve wanted to be a cheerleader since I was little,” Thilges said. 

Devney is enjoying the social aspect of cheering, being one way she can connect with others, even with social distancing.

“I wanted to see what it was like,” Devney said. “I wanted to meet new people, make new friends, have fun.”

Even with enjoying the social aspects, the physical portion of the cheer team has its downsides for some members of the squad.

“I would change the fact that we have to do conditioning,” Thilges said. “It’s not improving me and there’s no point to be ‘fit’ for just cheering at games.”

The real payoff comes on game day when the cheer team gets to show off their skills for everyone attending the games.

“Games are very exciting because it’s what everyone looks forward to,” Thilges said. “We’re able to show off our skills to everyone, and stunting is one of my favorite parts.”

Of course, they’re still following the social distancing rules and wearing masks even during the games. Despite the inconvenience, their goal is to keep everyone in attendance safe and healthy. 

“I don’t like the masks,” Devney said. “Especially since it makes it harder to breathe and harder to yell.”

The cheer team is still having a great year. There are still a lot of difficulties with the coronavirus restrictions. Everyone’s goal is to have a fun, safe time while still cheering the Monarchs into their next victory.