ST. JOHNS, Fla. — Participation in a sport is vital for our youth. Although sports provide athletes with healthy fitness habits and encourage appropriate competitiveness, they are also essential in teaching kids how to work together and get along with multitudes of personality types. Getting children involved in any type of activity helps them grow up to be well-rounded adults. 

Many football games include shouts of encouragement, difficult stunting, and astounding tumbling skills. The sideline entertainment is performed by cheerleaders! Not only do these participants support their local teams on the field, but oftentimes, they decorate lockers, make posters for events, and even plan and execute pep rallies. 

Recently, the roles were reversed for the Freedom Crossing Academy Falcons. Well out of their typical role and comfort zone, the football team showed their spirit by passing out snacks and drinks at a recent Cheerleading event. Despite the awkwardness and anxiety many middle school-aged kids feel when interacting with the opposite gender, everyone was able to enjoy this event, which was set up by coaches and parents of these athletes. What an amazing way to foster confidence and provide encouragement!

The families, coaches, and school are proud of this kind gesture. The cheerleaders had the opportunity to feel support and encouragement, much like they usually provide others. This special event certainly demonstrated how important it is to be there for others, and we hope this will motivate more athletes to do something similar.

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