With the annual Powderpuff game between Foran and Law kicking off, it’s not just about the girls battling on the field; it’s also about the boys on the sidelines, stepping into the role of cheerleaders.
During the fall and winter sports seasons, the cheerleaders support the boys, and the Powderpuff game gives the boys a chance to give back. Seeing the girls play while the boys cheer on the sidelines adds a twist to the game.
The first practice went just as Junior Powderpuff assistant cheer coach Sarah Schumann expected. The boys were excited, had fun, and were ready to learn new things. They enjoyed the practice and were looking forward to the upcoming game.
“They were very determined to learn new skills and try new things,” Schumann says.
As with any new challenge, obstacles arise. Schumann believes that come game day, the boys will be ready. Last year, a lack of preparation left the boys unable to perform their routine.
Schumann continues, “Learning from your mistakes is the biggest thing, and I think the boys are much more prepared than last year.”
Head cheerleading coach, Amber Nester, created the routine the boys will perform. During practice, the boys are pushed to learn the basics of cheerleading. They are taught one of four positions: flying, basing, back spot, or front spot. The boys were even taught how to do a backflip at the first practice.
Powderpuff defensive coach Abbigail Blanchard remarks, “The Powderpuff game is all about school spirit and tradition, and having the boys cheer on the sidelines adds a whole new level of energy and excitement.” Blanchard feels that support strengthens a team and that having the boys on the sidelines will provide all the support the girls need.
Senior Powderpuff player Isabella Abreu believes that having the boys on the sidelines changes the game’s dynamic and engages the audience more. Abreu hopes to see some flips and dancing from the boys come game day.
One of the cheerleaders, Junior Alex Lin, shares, “I’m excited to be on the sidelines for the game.” He enjoys doing something different and hopes that the audience enjoys the performance.
The Powderpuff game continues the tradition of girls competing on the field while boys cheer from the sidelines, bringing the community together for a precursor to the big Thanksgiving Day game.
The Powderpuff game is on November 26, 2024, at the Foran High School turf field.
