Board reconfigures South cheer squads
Freshman group cut, but more students will be allowed in two others
BY DAN NEWMAN
Staff Writer

MIDDLETOWN - After a meeting that sparked serious debate, the township Board of Education has decided to increase the number of students allowed to be on the cheerleading squads at High School South.

In previous years, three squads (freshman, junior varsity, varsity) carried a total of about 60 students. The new lineup will have only two teams (varsity and junior varsity), but comprises up to 75 students.

The issue arose at a recent Board of Education meeting when word got out there would be just one cheerleading squad for the upcoming year consisting of about 45 students. Some parents indicated that problems would arise because that is a large number to have on just one team, and the majority of the team would likely be made up of older students, leaving many freshmen and sophomores out of the mix.

"Colleges are looking for a long-term commitment from kids, and by cutting so many younger kids they won't have the opportunity to participate," said Toni Holmes, whose daughter, Danielle, was on the team last year. "I think this district ought to try and benefit the greatest number of girls and leave the squads the way they are."

Senior Hilary Citarella spoke about how tough it would be to have just one cheerleading squad.

"I think that the younger girls need to grow and mature with kids their own age," Citarella said. "I think kids will be devastated if there's only one squad."

Board member Sherry Gevarter chimed in as well, saying that freshmen specifically should have opportunities to participate in school activities just like all other students.

"We've often talked about giving freshmen chances in our high schools, and this is no different," Gevarter said.

At the conclusion of the meeting, it was determined by Assistant Superintendent of Schools Dan Skelton that another meeting would be scheduled in order to figure out what to do. At that meeting two weeks ago, the new format was created, leaving those who were frustrated just a few nights earlier relieved.

"With more slots open now for the kids, this turned out better than I thought it would," Holmes said. "The board was very supportive of the kids."

Incoming first-year coach Lynn Tremari is satisfied with the outcome as well.

"I feel like this gives more kids an opportunity to participate, and that's what the goal should always be," Tremari said. "Last year I think we had 51 kids altogether, and so now we'll have even more than that on just two teams."