The cheerleading team, led by Jacqueline Newton and Coach Italy, is preparing for an exciting season. Coach Italy joins practices weekly, focusing on teaching routines and follow up with previous practices. The dedicated squad of 24 cheerleaders, supported by 2 managers, practices every Wednesday and Thursday in the cafeteria from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. With their hard work and commitment, the upcoming season, starting this December, is set to be full of energy and team spirit!
The sublevel goal of the cheer team is to bring school spirit back to Flushing; it would be a dream come true for them to build a program that lasts for generations. “While cheerleading is meant to highlight sports within our campus, my biggest goal is to create a family amongst the girls,” Newton says. With around 1,700 students in FHS, Newton aims to build a sense of belonging among the girls, creating friendships that last a lifetime. She envisions a sisterhood where every member knows they can always rely on one another, no matter what.
Shayla, a current member of the cheerleading team adds, “She’s always finding a way to encourage us especially when we’re struggling to figure out difficult cheers.”
The current cheerleaders were chosen for their ability to follow rules, positive conduct slip feedback, and their ability to perform cheers to the best of their ability. Beyond coaching, Newton manages conduct checks, teacher outreach, behavior assessments, event coordination, and serves as the one the girls come to when they need help. She sees herself as a “momager,” managing the team while providing unwavering support. She guides the girls through their activities and responsibilities, ensuring they know she’s there for them no matter what.