Tiger cheerleaders make waves at NHS

The Nevada High School varsity cheerleaders are: Front row, left to right: Kenzie Crews, Erika Magsam, Megan Hendrix and Kori Trotter. Middle: Megan Hutchinson, Emily Martin, Cassidy Lowry and Kylie Guest. Back: Cherylin Sherman, Rilyn Phillips, Tanisha Lukenbill and Kaylee Lolly. --Submitted Photos

They line up on the field or the court to fire up the players as they enter the arena, knowing another game is about to commence with fan support behind them all the way. How sad would the sidelines appear without the crimson and gray uniforms adorned by the cheerleaders along with the Tiger mascot? The cheerleaders of NHS make a 12-month commitment to their sport.

Despite the risk of sprains, black eyes, busted lips, sore ligaments and other injuries from stunts and routines, their spirit remains undaunted. Tryouts are in March. Shortly thereafter, the annual cookie dough fundraiser begins, the proceeds from which are used to offset personal expenses such as shoes and camp. Practices are once a week, 12 months out of the year and more often prior to special events such as Homecoming and Courtwarming.

The Nevada High School junior varsity cheerleaders are: Front row: Janell Hawks and Jordan Wilson. Middle row: Sable Kennady, Kayla Morrow and Kirsten Smith. Back row: Morrissa Sands, Kayli Wilson, Hayley Snowden and Mikayla Servos. [Click to enlarge]

Cheers are learned, routines practiced and stunts undertaken. When the sports season is under way, banners and posters are made, pom-poms are removed from storage, and the excitement begins.

The Future Cheerleader clinic is held in August each year. Any child, kindergarten through sixth grade, is invited to participate. The young participants attend a one day clinic to learn cheers and a dance and enjoy a day with the NHS Cheerleaders. The following week, they have the opportunity to perform, on the field, at the first Tiger Football game.

Nevada is very lucky to have a wonderful sponsor in the form of Mrs. Pam Earnest, who has had the position for more than 10 years. She is assisted by her daughter, Mrs. Sara Parrack. Not only do they attend all junior varsity and varsity games, they also oversee all practices, fundraisers, and the future cheerleader and mascot clinics.

They order the uniforms and accessories, and plan the annual banquet held in March. Homecoming and Courtwarming events are organized under their direction. Parents and senior cheerleaders are recognized during the basketball season. School practices and the activity policies are monitored.

Earnest and Parrack also smooth out disputes that may arise within the circle of 25 cheerleaders. In addition, Earnest drives the bus to the out-of-town games with the cheerleaders aboard. Next time you attend an event, pay special attention to those high-spirited, enthusiastic cheerleaders inspiring their teams to victory! Go Tigers!

The NHS Cheerleaders and Mascots will be sponsoring a Mascot Camp. The camp will be conducted with Oscar, Lola and the NHS Cheerleaders on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2010, beginning at 9 a.m. and ending at 11 a.m., at Truman Elementary. Participants will perform at halftime of the Boys Basketball Game that same day.

Children in grades K-2 are encouraged to participate. Flyers will be distributed at school, or children may register the morning of the clinic. I am sure Oscor and Lola will be turning flips at the opportunity to share their skills.