As winter sports continue, the girl’s competitive cheer team welcomes new member backspot junior Gaven Rodriguez.

Rodriguez is the first male cheerleader since the loss of alumni cheerleader Max Newman. 

“I joined the team because some of my friends on the team were asking me to try out,” Rodriguez said. 

Though typically a female-dominated sport, having a male on the team is a benefit in the competition world.

“Gaven brings an advantage to the team with his strong stunting and tumbling skills,” head cheerleading coach Julia Todd said. “He is fearless and has a constant drive to improve his skills. [Also,] Gaven’s determination to consistently better himself not only elevates our routine but also sets a positive example for the entire team.”

Cheer is a highly competitive high school sport.   Though initially trained as a gymnast, problem with his shoulder and a concussion caused  Rodriguez to take a break.

“Cheer is similar to gymnastics which is something that I did previously before injuring myself,” Rodriguez said. “It was my favorite sport, and I really enjoyed it.” 

Joining an almost all-woman team can be difficult, but it is also a change of pace for the returning members.

“I’m definitely comfortable having Gaven on the team,” junior backspot Sophie Jirus said. “I’ve been friends with him for years, and he really does love cheering with everyone on the team. He’s a good team player on the mat.”

Unlike Cheerleading during games the rest of the year, the cheer team is structured to prepare for weekly competitions.

“It definitely was a change of atmosphere,” Rodriguez said. “It was much more clean and organized than anything.” 

Todd states  building a professional relationship with Rodriguez and utilizing his tumbling skills is crucial. 

“Coaching Gaven has been a rewarding experience, especially considering his gymnastic background,” Todd said. “His foundation has made him a faster learner, and he has improved so much since the start of competition season.”