The Pershing County Spirit Squad showed adaptability over the weekend.
Usually, they perform in front of stands packed with fans.
The give-and-take energizes everyone.
On Friday night and Saturday afternoon, the bleachers were empty due to coronavirus restrictions.
“It’s so different cheering with no people in the stands,” said Julia Steele, the team captain. “But we just faced the people in their cars and kept good energy. Our main goal was to be there and support the football players.”
Fans watched the game tailgate-style from their vehicles, sometimes standing in the beds of their pickups to get a better view.
Julia graduates this spring with four years of cheer under her belt. She cheered for state championships two years in a row.
“I can’t believe how much cheer has changed me,” she said. “I started off as a super shy, quiet girl and now I’m a team captain. I’m grateful to be a Mustang. I also have the best coach a girl could ask for, Cecilia Marie Canchola Thornhill.”
