Spirit spreadin’, crowd pleasin’

Sports fans know the infamous debate surrounding cheerleaders. Are cheerleaders athletes, or not athletes? However, most of those engaged in such debates are not aware of the work, preparation and talent it takes to be a Liberty University cheerleader.

Contrary to stereotype, the Liberty’s cheerleading squads’ practices do not merely consist of learning and rehearsing dance routines, cheers and chants. Regular practices take place three days a week for two hours and weight lifting sessions and workouts are two days a week for an hour and a half.

“We do not have an ‘off season’ like other sports teams. We practice and cheer from August until April,” Molly-Catherine Goodson said.

Performing in front of others is a complex skill to master, but some find the rush and the adrenaline exhilarating.

“My favorite part about cheering at a game is being close to the game and in front of thousands of people supporting our athletes,” Laura Massey said.

Liberty has two cheerleading squads, a co-ed squad and an all-girls squad. Working with two squads may sound overwhelming, but Coach Jennifer Sydnor shrugs off the extra work. Her priority is ensuring each team is provided what they need to be successful.

“I love my two teams and what they are trying to accomplish,” Sydnor said. “I think it is so imperative to have two teams so the program can continue to grow.”

Sydnor has impressed a significant affect on her athletes and her influence is apparent in her three years at Liberty.

“[Sydnor] knows the potential we have and holds us to that standard,” Chelsea Andrews said. “Jenny has really had a great impact on the growth of this program in just the few years she’s been here.”

Sydnor grew up as a gymnast, but upon coming to Liberty, she started cheerleading. She understands that cheerleaders do not generally have an outstanding reputation, but she aims to assist her squads in implementing the desires of God’s will in their everyday lives.

“Each year my foremost goal is to build a team of athletes that are unified in Christ,” Sydnor said.

Notes of encouragement and Bible verses are often given to the athletes to remind them their coaches support and are praying for them.

Sydnor’s favorite part about coaching at Liberty is forming relationships with her athletes. “I am so blessed to be able to work with each of these athletes,” coach Jennifer Sydnor said. “They are such a blessing to me.”

Community involvement is an important aspect for the LU cheerleading squads. Liberty cheerleaders are associated with the PACE program, the Hill City Youth Cheerleaders, and the Christian Cheerleaders of America competition that is hosted at LU every year.

The all-girls squad, LU Red Squad, is looking forward to competing at the UCA College Nationals in Orlando, Fla. this year. UCA College Nationals is one of the largest and most reputable college cheerleading competitions.
“We are all very excited for this amazing opportunity to represent our school.” Megan Neff said.

Andrew Jordan is proud to be apart of the Liberty co-ed squad and considers the team to be a family. “Its different than high school, in that most people think it is really cool that you are a male cheerleader,” Jordan said. “People actually show you respect that you are able to throw girls in the air and do certain stunts.”

YOUNG is a sports reporter.