As the fall season kicks off, there are some new faces on the sideline under the Friday night lights. Although some may remember the two male cheerleaders on the team last year, seniors Jackson Elder and Michael Woo, there are two more followed in their footsteps this year, sophomore Brandon Tran and freshman JJ Dallas. This a major shift for the program which has struggled in the past to attract more male cheerleaders.

One thing that all four guys have in common is that they found their interest in cheering from their friends.

“The reason I decided to go to one of the of the Green Days, and ultimately joined the team was because of my best friend Destiny,” said sophomore Brandon Tran

Senior Jackson Elder had a similar experience hearing about the sport.

“Honestly, I was friends with so many people on the team, and just decided why not try it,” said Elder.

Elder and Woo helped pave the way, making it easier for other guys to join the team.

“Having boys on the team was probably one of the leading factors that lead me to joining the team. It just felt more comfortable to be with other guys on the team,” said Tran.

The diversity of personalities that the males bring to the team helps build the chemistry between teammates.

“I think my humor is a little different than what they traditionally have on the team, so it defiantly helps change things up,” said senior Elder.

Other guys on the team agree that having some male influences has an overall positive impact overall on the team.

“It’s also good having guys on the team because it brings more personality to the team,” said Dallas.

Although the cheer team can be seen every Friday cheering on the football team from the sidelines, they also have a highly competitive season. The team this year is hoping for strong finish possibly placing in the state tournament.

“I spent time in the off season trying to improve my cheering because I knew that we would have a strong team returning, and I want us to have the best shot to win,” said Elder.

The competition can be the most stressful part of the season.

“The anticipation of while waiting to hear our score may be the hardest part,” said Woo.

There may be intense competition, but this does not mean it’s all work and no play for the athletes.

“We definitely have a good amount of fun every day, I mean who would not have fun with me around,” said Elder.