Cheerleading is a difficult sport. Whether you’re a base, a flyer, or a spotter, there is strenuous work involve. Still, most cheerleaders love this sport, and one such cheerleader is  FCHS sophomore Brianna Holsapple.

Holsapple first started cheerleading when her friends persuaded her to try it. She competed for two years before joining the high school team.  “It is a little challenging balancing school and cheer,” she says, while noting that seasons with fewer games and practices are easier.

Over the summer, the cheerleading team still has practice, so they don’t go too long without cheering. Summer practices are actually enjoyable for Holsapple and she doesn’t find them to be in the way of other activities like hanging out with friends.

The hardest part about cheerleading for Holsapple is the stunting, something which is hard for any cheerleader, even the most experienced ones, due to the risk of falling. Even the smallest mistake can lead to a devastating injury that can hinder you for the rest of your life.

Still, Holsapple said she finds stunting fun. Her role in stunts is as a base, which means she is one of the people on the bottom of a partner stunt or pyramid. It’s a significant role, since without a base, there would be no stunt at all.