Cheerful learning from a high school squad

By Luis Carlo San Juan

It’s fun being a cheerleader in high school, there's a certain oomph students put to it. Plus the bonding is definitely different compared when you move to college. “You fall, but you can rely on your teammates to help each other up,” says member San Beda Alabang high school senior Mayumi Toribio who joined the squad in her senior year. “I literally begged my mom that I join,” she says. Her mom finally said yes and is now very supportive. Though balancing the squad and her studies is no easy task, her mom noticed that she has become happier.

Team Captain Angelica Consulta has gained a lot being the “big sister” of her squad., and her leadership skills came to good use when a prized member was suddenly pulled out by her parents, days before the NCC competition. She did necessary damage control. “Being the cheerleading captain taught me to value of teamwork and to be disciplined,” she says. Under her leadership the squad gave the school it’s 4th WNCAA Cheerleading Championship trophy.

Anne Campos got tired performing in inter-batch cheering competitions in school that’s why she joined, “Cheerleading is my passion. It’s different when you perform for the school,” she says.

Inspired by San Beda’s winning tradition and under the tutelage of Coach Ajjie Mendelebar the team has won four straight WNCAA Cheerleading titles. “The kids are fun to work with,” says Coach Ajjie. “They have enthusiasm; they appreciate each other, and are always willing to explore new things. The girls have learned to love the sport even though it’s hard because they enjoy what they’re doing.” It boils down to having the right attitude, he adds.

Having female cheerleaders is a new experience for San Beda, which was once an all-boys school. But the Alabang HS squad has showed what a coeducational environment can contribute to San Beda’s rich and colorful 110-year tradition. The squad continues to evolve but still remains true to its Bedan roots. In performing, it does not just carry the name of the Alabang sister school but the whole of San Beda.

Watch their winning performance here:

The squad is asking yet again for the support of the entire Bedan community as they vie for a five-peat in the 2011 WNCAA Cheerleading Competition in February.