Cheering fans bring excitement to high school sports

High school sports competitions have a unique atmosphere. Crowds can be made up of parents cheering on children, alumni reveling in their playing days and students.

Reporter Ruth Campbell wrote about several local student-led cheering sections for a story that appeared in the March 20 edition of the Southeast Missourian.

Cape Girardeau Central High School students have their CT Jungle. Jackson High School has the J Crue. The BRU Crew, an acronym for Big Roudy Union, is the group for Scott City High School's pep club. The Bulldogs of Notre Dame have the Blue Crew. The fan section at Saxony Lutheran High School is called Stronghold, which is based on Psalm 27:1 in the Bible: "The Lord is the stronghold of my life of whom I should be afraid."

It's good to see students get behind their school teams. It's an opportunity to be involved with your school, develop friendships and have fun.

The importance of fans will be recognized this summer as Semoball.com will host the Semoball Awards on June 21 at the Show Me Center. More than 200 athletes will be recognized, and former Cardinals shortstop Ozzie Smith will be the guest speaker.

One of the awards of the night is for Best Fans in Southeast Missouri. More than 15,000 votes have been cast so far in the contest at semoball.com/awards.

On April 17, this competition will become a bracket-style matchup. You can read more about this in a story that appears in today's Sports section.

Fans may vote one time per day. Bracket voting requires a one-time registration beginning April 17.

To learn more about the Semoball Awards or to secure your tickets, visit semoball.com/awards.