The Pottstown School District’s cheerleading squads at the high school and middle school are counted on to create enthusiasm and spirit for the sports teams but they have proven that there is much more to them than cheers and pom-poms.
Under the direction of coaches Christina Weiss and Tracy Oister, the girls have developed a tradition of community service. During the first few months of school, both squads participated in a “Pink Out” game during Breast Cancer Awareness Week. Their efforts raised over $550.00 which was donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Their fundraising efforts also included a “Red Out” game to support the American Heart Association. Wearing their “Red Out” tee-shirts at a high school football game the girls collected over $450.00 which was donated to the American Heart Association.
Coach Weiss expressed her pride in the girls’ activities, “Our squad recognizes how fortunate they are and understand the importance of giving back to our community and those who are in need. I am extremely proud of the self-motivation and drive that these young ladies exhibit.”
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In addition to fundraising activities, both squads have volunteered their services at community events. The annual Pottstown Pet Fair saw squad members work throughout the day helping vendors prepare their stands and ensuring orderly parking. All day long, the cheerleaders checked on the various animals at the stands and provided them with water and food.
At the Lincoln Elementary School Fall Family Night, the cheerleaders turned in their uniforms for Halloween costumes and volunteered throughout the night taking part in various activities that helped to make an enjoyable evening for elementary students. They led a children’s march throughout the gym and cheered on the youngsters during activities and face painting.
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Middle school coach Tracy Oister said, “Being able to partner the middle school and high school cheerleaders together has helped build a strong bond that will lead to better school atmosphere and solid community citizens.”
During the winter months, the cheerleaders have partnered with the Pottstown Cluster Outreach Center to conduct a winter clothes and coat drive for those in need.
High school cheerleader Joann Auman expressed her feelings about the community service, “I feel excited to do these events. I had a great time raising money with our coin drives and tee-shirt sales. Helping to paint faces at the Halloween event was a blast. Seeing everyone come together at the Pet Fair made me feel like a part of our community. The community service that the cheerleaders are doing is fun and I have enjoyed every minute helping to make our community a better place to live.”
Members of squads include:
High School Squad
Middle School Squad
Joann Auman
Alyssa Wanish
Sierra Lee
Aaliyah Ford
Jessica Yednock
Alexis Irizarry
Katrina Braunsberg
Jasmin Gonzalez
Hannah Irvin
Davajia Williams
Brianna Torres
Tatum Burmester
Troi Daniels
Ashli Sinclair
Kyli McKee
Alexandra Hickey
Lauren Yednock
Gianna Epps
Tamera Bennett
Tiana Bennett
Andraya Guy
Tyra Robinson
Ceola Smith
Emily Jerdon
Sara Dudley
Rasheeda Williams
Rashell Williams
Aniya Jackson Thorpe
Djali Irizarry
Jazmin Brooks
