The Spartan cheer team is introducing a new element to the squad. Boys have entered the exciting cheer team for 2025-2026. For many years, the cheerleaders have only consisted of female athletes. Now by introducing boys, reactions will differ when people realize how the audience appeal changes, and what new style will be influenced by the new and improved team.
In the past, cheerleading first originated from the University of Minnesota, only consisting of boys, no girls were ever allowed until the 1920s. The last time the cheer team introduced a boy was in the year 2017. Michael LaJoie participated in cheer to complete his senior project, but also performed in every competition, and built strong connections with his team.
Welcoming boys to the cheer team can be uncomfortable at first because of the quick changes for performing, or conversations that you would prefer not to be a part of.
“At first it was odd, and it was uncomfortable, like changing a shirt, or taking off your skirt to change into pants,” Current cheerleader Hadley Dailey said.
Despite clothing changes, or awkward conversations, boys can open more opportunities for the cheer team when competing. The cheer team now has the opportunity to perform in the boys and girls division, improve their cheer competition skills, and have a greater opportunity to advance in their team competition skills.
Introducing boys on the team can also promote equality for upcoming freshmen. They will now have the courage to get out of their comfort zone, and take those risks when experiencing new opportunities at the high school.
“There is some statistical stuff; if they join, it will open up a new division,” Dailey said.
Boys can help with supporting the team, building a more sturdy surface for creative stunts, and powerful entrances at significant cheer competitions. Boys can also create a higher complexity of formation on the team. Creating more formation would create more excitement.
More athletes entering the team creates more structure, and stability. More weight distribution added to the team can result in fewer injuries getting discovered.
New cheerleading boys can also create more emotion for the audience in the stands. Boys add character to the team, and are a huge part in making the team stronger. They also demonstrate diversity that is welcomed onto the team.
“There are more people on the cheer team, and more voices; they can get the audience more amped up,” Sophomore, Kyra Brousseau said.
With introducing the boys onto the team, people will be more engaged with the performances. The team will be thankful and more fortunate when developing new stunts. They will have a higher chance to succeed, and discover new challenges to face, and be victorious. Boys will also bring more energy to the team. They will get the audience on their feet and motivate them to get up, clap their hands, and jump up and down for the excitement.
