Sparkles Cheerleaders and mentors end season with banquet

Formed in 2008, The Sparkle Cheerleaders are a national non-profit group that works to bring students together, with and without disabilities. Westside’s own Sparkle cheerleaders wrapped up their season on Friday with their end of the year banquet. The whole squad along with their mentors and parents came together to finish off the year. They celebrated cheering at four volleyball games, two football games, and some basketball games throughout the school year.

Junior Abby Tigani, a member of varsity dance team, was one of the mentors that worked with the cheerleaders this school year. Tigani reflected on the season by the experiences she gained working with the squad.

“You learn how to be a positive leader in an atmosphere where it’s really needed,” Tigani said.

Tigani hopes to work with the squad again next year and grow from the opportunity even more. Tigani, along with the other mentors, worked together over the year to help the Sparkles develop their cheer skills. According to Tigani, the mentors greatly enjoyed watching the sparkles demonstrate the skills that had learned during performances.

“I think they like attention they get when they’re out there performing,” Tigani said. “When they get out there and are recognized for their hard work, they get really excited.”