With vibrant energy, the Cheerleaders ignited enthusiasm among the football fans during their half-time performance.

For Taleah Watson, 8th, the biggest challenge as a cheerleader was trying to help and teach techniques.

“It was also stressful trying to be overly good and set a good example as a captain and leader,” Taleah said. “My best memory mentoring the younger cheerleaders was their tryouts because I played games with them to try and calm their nerves and feel like I made friendships. My advice for new cheerleaders is to remember that it’s going to get hard, but you have to change your mindset and try to overcome it.”

A’Niyah Thomas, 8th, also valued mentoring younger cheerleaders at tryouts.

“I loved helping and giving them tips because I could see them getting better,” A’Niyah said.

Falling while tumbling was A’Niyah’s biggest challenge as a cheerleader.

“I was really embarrassed and still had to cheer afterwards,” A’niyah said. “My advice is to always smile, try to see the best in any situation because attitude is everything, and to have a bond with your teammates because you always can count on them.”

Having to stunt with a busted knee and torn ACL made the cheer season challenging for Chanell Taylor, 8th.

“I couldn’t even stand on my right knee,” Chanell said. “My advice is to smile, do your best to show out for others that hate, and don’t give up on a sport that others talk down on,” Channel said.

The double duty as basketball player and cheerleader was difficult for Ty’asia Holden, 8th.

“We had bad encounters,” Ty’asia said. “My advice to new cheerleaders is to be respectful and positive at all times.”

Summer practices as an incoming 7th grader on the cheer squad with no cheer experience was hard for Kaylin Chanthavong.

“It was difficult, but I overcame it and improved,” Kaylin said.

Aside from challenges, the cheerleaders also experienced memorable moments, such as the lock in.

“We played many games, and I feel like the big sleepover was a good way to get to know each other,” Taleah said.

Kaylin also enjoyed the lockin with all her friends.

“We didn’t have a care in the world that night,” Kaylin said. “We danced our butts off! It was definitely an unforgettable night.”

Cheering at the City Championship Basketball game was A’niyah’s best time.

“We were neck to neck against Ramsey, and we cheerleaders decided to brighten the mood and hype up the crowd,” A’niyah said. “The whole team was laughing and smiling.”

Assistant Coach Andrews appreciated the bond that was created between her and the girls.

“These young ladies are very talented and have made this year worthwhile,” Asst. Coach Andrews said.

Seeing the growth in her athletes made Coach Powers proud.

“I challenged them throughout the year, and they rose to each challenge,” Coach Powers said. “Every one of my eighth graders tried out for Northside, and every one of them made the team. I am very proud of the 100% success at tryouts because I feel that we helped set them up for success.”