There are people who don’t receive enough recognition in this school, community, and society. Often people are driven by the sayings, actions, beliefs, or observations they have experienced. Isn’t it amazing how easily influenced people are by the way situations are portrayed? A group of BOYCP students influenced strongly by movies, show competitiveness, strength, charisma, and school spirit. Led by Ms. Smoot, it’s no wonder why the cheerleaders are amazing at what they do. They’ve come a long way compared to last year; they have more complex routines, difficult stunts, and advance tumbles. They will be competing against other teams this season. But besides their capability of lifting and throwing each other up in the air, strength doesn’t always have to be physical. When asked about stereotypes and ideas on what it means to be a cheerleader, Ms. Smoot responded by saying, “We are hurt by the things people say about us but we mostly feel bad for the people who are negative towards us. We want to educate you about both external and internal struggles we face. We’re badass on all levels and we only continue to get stronger as a team and individuals.” Ms. Smoot said it herself, the team has only gotten stronger bringing their absolute best to school as students and athletes.

This year, the cheerleading team participated at a football game at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. That experience made most of the team realize that they want to continue being cheerleaders once they graduate high school. This only proves that the cheerleaders care for their education and success. Society doesn’t recognize that cheerleaders are more than pretty faces with skirts on.

-Veronica Rodriguez