By: Amanda Cuda
Posted In: Sports
Photo credit: Amanda Cuda
Salve cheerleaders perform a routine at a recent football game. “There´s more to cheerleading than just jumping up and down with pom-pons,” says Kristen Rogers, the squad´s sophomore captain.
When it comes to school spirit, no one shows off their enthusiasm and support as highly as the Salve Regina Cheerleading Squad. You may spot them on the field at a home football game, in the fitness center of Rogers, or walking around campus on game day with their blue-and-green ribbons tied up high in their hair.
They have the important job of getting the football team hyped up for every game, whether it’s decorating the locker room or standing on the side lines performing numerous chants with ear-to-ear smiles on their faces. Don’t be fooled by all the chanting and high kicks, however. “There’s more to cheerleading than just jumping up and down with pom pons,” said sophomore Captain Kristen Rogers. “People don’t understand how hard it really is.” The cheerleaders attend practices four days a week, and due to the availability of the gym, they have to practice off-campus to make their routine flawless. This means rehearsing cheers, improving jumps, and lifting not only weights, but other cheerleaders as well. “Stunting is one of the most important aspects of a half-time routine,” said junior Jessica Devine. “It takes strength and more importantly, trust.” Trust is a key factor when it comes to tossing each other in the air and catching someone in mid-fall. “Without trust, there is no stunt, and people can get seriously hurt. I have the bruises to prove it,” said Devine. There are more than 15,000 injuries reported nation wide each year due to cheerleading related activities. Salve Regina cheerleaders take all precautions necessary to ensure that doesn’t happen, and still come out with numerous heart-stopping stunt sequences. With more upcoming games, come new and thrilling routines for each half-time performance. With half the squad consisting of first-year students, Rogers admits she’s seen more improvement this year than any other. “I think because we all get along so well, we can come together as a team and create an awesome performance,” said Rogers. Helping the squad look its best is the job of cheerleading coach, Dawn Hahn. Hahn has been the coach of the Salve Regina Cheerleading Squad for four years. It is through her guidance and experience that the squad to look better with each year. “We’re just getting started”, said Devine. “Expect to be surprised.”
