The Rockin’ Raiders cheer team, created in 2016, has been an awesome addition to the high school. The Rockin’ Raiders is a club through a program called the Sparkle Effect, and run by coach Robin Pidany, a special education teacher at Hillsborough Elementary School. In its third year, the club has gained a lot of popularity.

Seniors David Finer and Sarah Friedman are two of the captains of the squad; they put a lot of effort into the team, spending their time with the girls, and planning ideas for the team. The captains are very close to all of the girls individually, and all have their own special connections.  

A lot of their time goes into thinking of ways to help make the program bigger and better. They meet up twice a week for practices, which are usually an hour and a half long. The girls cheer at sporting events, such as football and boys soccer games, and always have great spirit! They laugh, dance, goof off and simply have the time of their lives.

As a captain, Finer really enjoys being a part of the Rockin’ Raiders, and loves to see the girls do something that they are passionate about.

“I love hanging out with the girls and seeing them just have a good time and feeling included,” Finer said.  “The team is so amazing because the girls get to enjoy being part of a unit. They love the attention and getting their cheer on at the games. I am so glad this opportunity came to the high school because it really helps me value my time with the girls.” 

The girls look forward to practices and getting to see all of their friends; they love to give their all in cheers and dance routines. Dressing up in their uniforms, accompanied by their families in the audience, gets the girls excited to cheer.

Ultimately, the Rockin’ Raiders Cheer Team is a great addition to the high school. From the coach, to the captains, to the girls, everyone enjoys being a part of such a fun and enjoyable program. Spending time with friends, doing what they love, and simply feeling great, are just a few of the reasons why the girls love being a part of a team full of love, spirit, and passion.