Powder Puff is drawing near this year and the stakes are high for the girls playing and the boys cheering. This year a difference will be noted between the senior and junior cheerleaders in the lack of participation for the junior boys. In years past, the gender role reversal was a big draw for players and spectators alike, yet the juniors boys now are shying away from those roles. Kelsey Hernjak is one of the cheerleading coaches for the juniors boys and was confused by their lack of interest. Hernjak said, “Unfortunately, I do not know why participation for the 11th-grade cheerleading team was low this year. I sent multiple emails to the entire junior class, there were announcements made through the school intercom, and information regarding the event was on Channel 3 News.” There are only ten junior boys participating, but they are still excited for their opportunity to cheer.

When some of the boys participating were asked what they thought the reason behind the lack of junior boy participation their answers remained constant. Ian Ward and Ethan Hunt, who are junior cheerleaders said, “Our grade has a habit of not always being invested in school activities.” Another junior cheerleader Addison Lay said, “No one has any school or fun spirit.”

Even with the lack of participation, the boys are still very positive for their chances of winning. Every year the dances and cheers get more complex and the stunts more high risk. With a smaller team, who knows what new and exciting routine the boys will be able to pull off! When asked if their smaller team would be an asset during the competition the boys were positive they had a leg up. David Ronan said, “Don’t underestimate us.” and his teammates Ward and Hunt said, “ Size doesn’t matter. It is the heart and effort. We might be small but we are big in spirit.”

To see the routine of the junior boys attend the Powderpuff game this Saturday as they face off against the veteran seniors. This year is sure to be a routine that will leave spectators at the edge of their seats from both the juniors and seniors.