I have been thinking about all the little girls from Hughesville, Jersey Shore, Loyalsock, Muncy, Montoursville, South Williamsport, and Williamsport who have just participated in the cheerleading competitions. I have been thinking of these girls who have been cheering for their football teams, learning and practicing cheers and competition routines for the past four months.
I have been thinking about all the coaches who have given up many a night at home with their families to coach and train these girls to the best of their abilities. I have been thinking about the commissioners who have spent time listening to complaints, petty arguments, budgeting, purchasing, and being there for all their squads.
I have thought about the team moms who have been laundresses, secretaries, tear wipers, crafters, and cheerleaders themselves, all while holding down full time jobs. I replay yesterday in my mind; a hallway full of girls from all school districts cheering, and laughing. I remember how I played with flag girls from Jersey Shore and we fanned all the girls from Sock and Montoursville who were dying of heat! Then the moment comes when all take the floor. They cheer with all their hearts and watch each squad in all age groups give it everything they have.
I know, personally, I was proud of each squad and cheered every squad on; to the extent that I barely have a voice on Sunday morning.
Then I replay the nasty comments that were heard in the hallways and even on the gym floor. I soothe the cheerleader (9 years old) who had other nine-year-old girls poke fun at them. I hear grown adults slandering little girls. I hear how "competitions" were rigged; certain schools paid judges, certain schools should just go home and I am disappointed in some of the people in Lycoming County. I say shame on all those who participated in this behavior.
I am proud of the girls of Montoursville, great work! I am proud of the girls that competed from Hughesville, Jersey Shore, Loyalsock, Muncy, South Williamsport, and Williamsport. Fantastic job! Those who worked hard and competed with true sportsmanship should be proud today!
Christy Sherwood
Montoursville
Submitted by Virtual Newsroom
