University of Denver cheerleaders teach boys and girls club members the art of cheerleading

In the United States, members of the Josephine Hodgkins Boys & Girls Club engaged with cheerleaders from the University of Denver during a special event aimed at fostering community spirit and encouraging youth participation in sports. The DU cheerleaders collaborated with CBS Colorado for the Together for Colorado Toy Drive, which is dedicated to collecting toys for those in need. Club members had the unique opportunity to learn cheers, chants, and other cheerleading fundamentals from the college cheer squad. This interactive lesson demonstrated the dual purpose of the event: not only to contribute toys to the drive but also to inspire local youth by showcasing the value of teamwork, community involvement, and physical activity. Several club members, including young girls interested in gymnastics and cheerleading, expressed their excitement and appreciation for this direct engagement with the college athletes. They found the practices and movements presented by the cheerleaders both fun and educational. The reactions from the club members highlighted the impact of personal mentorship and role models on youth development. According to Nevaeh, a 13-year-old participant, learning about the energetic spirit entrance used by cheerleaders motivated her to pursue activities other than sedentary pastimes. Jacqueline, the cheerleading representative, emphasized that engaging with the club at an individual level can empower these kids by showcasing what is possible within college-level athletics. The collaboration between the University of Denver Athletics Department and the Boys & Girls Club is part of a larger initiative to encourage children to explore and cultivate their interests in sports and cheerleading. Events like this can help provide opportunities for youth that they might not have encountered otherwise, leaving a lasting impression that motivates them to pursue their passions.