How Bleachers Are Part of the Team, Too

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VINCENT LIN
Sports Editor
On every game day, each of our beloved sports teams step onto the floor of the court, grass of the field, or water of the pool expecting to perform to the highest of their ability. No matter how hard they train, our athletes are not made of steel. The brain is just as important as the body in many sports, so for any of us, the best way to help provide our teams with mental support is by simply showing up to the bleachers.
Over time, it has become a general acceptance that some high school sports will have a higher turnout of spectators, while some will have much less. Consequently, the players of these smaller teams, even in a cornerstone sport such as soccer, have adapted to the lack of outside support in order to keep their spirits, and thus their performance, high.
“We’re more together as a family. We can’t worry about who’s coming to watch us; we have to worry about the 11 guys that are on the field. It actually makes us more united,” said varsity soccer Captain Rodrigo Banuelos.
Although they are conscious of the smaller crowd, by focusing on the inner circle of players and close fans such as parents and close friends, the soccer team carries out its season with maturity and direction.
However, this is not to say that new or unfamiliar guests to the crowd are insignificant. From the perspective of our larger sports such as football, which reaches 200-people turnouts supporting Alhambra, the crowd may represent a whole different idea.
“I feel that in sports like football and wrestling, a larger crowd means we are representing our school better. It gives a stronger motivation and it definitely lifts my spirit,” said varsity football and wrestling member Jorge Vasquez.
So whether you are dying to see your main team win or trying to support a single friend, you can make the difference by bringing yourself over, along with a few cheers. The simple benefit of physical presence will bring greater spiritual support than students realize.
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