Feeling support from a crowd as an athlete can motivate kids and make them strive to do better. From the themes to the chants, the middle school students find ways to support their basketball teams. The support of the student section has been especially grand this year, and they don’t plan to stop any time soon.
7th grader Logan Hrabik said, “My favorite part is getting to dress up and see what everyone’s outfits will be like.”
Two of the most popular themes this year were hot dogs and pajamas. They all love dressing up and showing off their best outfits. The competition between the students to see who can make the best outfit is what motivates them to keep showing up to the games.
The middle school basketball players love the support from their peers in the stands. They cheer them on and motivate them to do better.
7th grade basketball player Jillian Harvey said, “Having the student section there makes me feel accomplished when I score in a game because they go crazy.”
The students plan for weeks ahead about their themes and ideas for the home games. They decide on outfits, signs, and times to show up. They try to make sure that a big group of people shows up to support the basketball team. The parents also find the student section amusing because of their funny and lighthearted activities.
Athletic Director Mr. Walker said, “It’s really nice to see the students supporting each other in their sports. It helps the players know that they aren’t putting in all of the work for nothing.”
Players work all year long to be the best athlete they can be for their season, so seeing people show up to support them and cheer them on makes them feel like it’s all worth it. Having a support system at the games gives middle schoolers a sense of what playing in front of a high school crowd is like and can influence them to want to play sports in high school. When the crowd is actively encouraging athletes, it makes the game a lot more fun.
“It’s more exciting … because you know that your friends will be there cheering you on,” said 7th grade basketball player, Kayci Wetterberg.