When people think of FNL (Friday Night Lights), they think of three things: football, sideline cheerleaders and the student section. The cheerleaders are hyped up and ready to cheer on Lambert’s football team, win or lose.
To prepare for game day, the cheerleaders need to make sure that they can hit their stunts and cheers.
“Before the games, we always do reps for stunting and get ready together in the room before the game,” junior Jessie Ledbetter said.
Getting ready together before games is something that really helps bring the team together and bond. They get to talk and laugh with each other while getting ready and do each other’s game day hair before they walk down to the field. This helps contribute to a strong team because it builds communication and trust within the cheerleaders.
With the bond of the cheerleaders, a win is always more exciting especially if it’s a home game.
“My favorite memory so far is beating North at home,” Ledbetter stated. The student section is the loudest at home games, so the cheerleaders love to cheer in front of the energized longhorn student section.
Even through tough games when the score isn’t high, the cheerleaders always maintain a positive attitude.
“We always try to keep smiles on our faces for the crowds and try to have fun, not worrying about the score,” Ledbetter said.
Getting involved in varsity sports can be daunting due to the practice schedule.
“School and cheer is actually pretty easy to balance because practices are over the summer and our games are on Fridays after the school week is over,” Ledbetter shared. Varsity sports can be challenging to juggle, but the cheerleaders have worked out their schedule to avoid getting behind on school work during the season.
While being a cheerleader can be complicated and daunting. For new cheerleaders looking at joining the team, Jessie has some advice she would give to someone who wants to join the team next year.
“Always try to have a smile on your face and be hyper because the coaches love that, and stay focused,” Ledbetter said.
Sideline cheer is a sport that a lot of people enjoy being a part of and continues to thrive as a focal point of Lambert football and spirit.
