Positivity and love is spreading like wildfire because of “Love Ups.” Created by sports administrator Mr. Walker, Love Ups are when athletes can compliment and encourage their teammates that are doing something good in front of the whole team. They’re a simple addition to strengthen chemistry with the players and build up confidence in one another. With their own little twist, the volleyball and cheer teams show support through lifting each other up with words of admiration.
The volleyball team has its own version: “Bump Ups.”
Junior volleyball captain Catalina Jones said, “It gives people the recognition they don’t always get.”
This concept is for the players that need some extra encouragement or appreciation people don't often express to them. When a player announces their bump up, everyone gives three claps to show support.
“Bumps Ups are a good way to bring us closer together, and not always see the negative in things,” said Jones.
Bump Ups spread positivity through players looking to make someone feel good about themselves. As players are looking for their person to bump up during a practice or game, they also put in extra effort in hopes for a compliment as well.
“It’s a great way to encourage people and show them that you care,” said sophomore cheerleader Macee Kiss.
The cheer team’s version, “Snaps,” is a simple way for the whole team to show support. Whether one girl or the whole team notices someone that achieves something, they can yell out: “Snaps for…” and everyone snaps to congratulate them. Hitting a difficult stunt, stepping up as leader, or being a good teammate are only some of the ways that might earn some Snaps.
“It makes me feel like I'm supported by the whole team,” said Kiss.
Getting Snaps from the whole team is an overall great feeling and can boost anyone's self-esteem. Knowing that everyone is noticing their dedication and hard work, cheer girls feel way more encouraged and supported by their teammates.
These teams’ attitudes, drive, and bonds with each other are becoming stronger and opening up new doors for improvement. This is just the start to getting more sports teams on this bandwagon to success.