Glen Edwards Middle School provides sports that allow students to interact with others and follow their passions in the activities they enjoy. However, there are still many sports that are not available at GEMS. Not every student feels excited or motivated by the sports currently offered, which leaves many without a meaningful way to participate in school activities and clubs. This is why I believe dance and cheerleading should be added as official sports at GEMS.
Dance and cheerleading require just as much trust, hard work, and sportsmanship as any other sport at GEMS. Dancers must develop technique, timing, flexibility, strength, and more. Cheerleaders train hard to perform stunts, tumbling, jumps, and routines. These activities challenge students both physically and mentally, and they often involve long practices and high expectations.
Offering these activities as official sports at Glen Edwards would give students who aren’t interested in current options—such as cross country, boys basketball, boys volleyball, flag football, wrestling, girls flag football, girls volleyball, girls basketball, and track and field—an opportunity to try something new. Not every student enjoys ball-related sports, but some love performing in front of crowds and expressing themselves through movement.
Another advantage is the positive energy cheerleading naturally brings. Cheerleaders promote school spirit through their smiles, encouragement, and enthusiasm. Dance teams can perform at assemblies and competitions, helping strengthen school unity and pride. When students feel seen and supported in their interests, the entire school becomes a more enjoyable and connected environment.
Lastly, officially approving dance and cheerleading as sports would show students that their hard work matters and that their talents are valued. Students who prefer sports that don’t involve a ball deserve opportunities to explore their passions and potentially continue them into high school or even college.
Glen Edwards Middle School has an opportunity to grow and become even more well-known by adding dance and cheerleading to its athletic programs. Not only would this support student interests and passions, but it would also create a more inclusive and vibrant school community. For these reasons, dance and cheerleading should be officially added as sports at GEMS so students can truly follow their passions.
