Stars of the Student Section

By Maddie Boggess | Contributing Writer

September 24, 2024

Though the application process for being a student section leader has changed, the AHS student section will continue to be led by a group of spirited seniors who pick weekly themes to support athletic teams at Anderson. As the football season continues, the Raptors haven’t stopped showing up decked out in theme and cheering loud. 

When it comes to being dressed in a theme, students go all out. This year's themes are all innovative but student section leader Maria Timmers (12) is most excited for the “white lies” theme, where students get to be creative with designing their own shirts.

“People will wear different shirts, earrings, socks, body paint, headbands, Hawaiian shirts, and more,” Timmers said.

Being a student section leader here at Anderson is a huge privilege but also comes with responsibilities. This year's student section is led by seniors Oliver Howe, Kolin Cafferky, JJ Bose, Jack O’Neil, Audrey Norwell, Savannah Parker, Maria Timmers, and Hannah McOwen. 

“The best part about being a student section leader is getting to sit up front and scream the loudest,” student section leader Savannah Parker (12) said.

After getting used to being pushed back numerous rows during their first three years at AHS, seniors finally get the chance to watch the game up close and cheer the loudest for their final year. 

“After waiting for four years, it feels like you deserve it,” student section leader Oliver Howe (12) said.

According to Timmers, Parker, and Howe, rap or pop music never fails to hype the rest of the student section up before games. 

“Pre-game hype is usually rap like some Kanye or Pitbull,” Timmers said.

Upperclassmen are not the only ones showing up for games. When it comes to cheering “Boogie Down” or “Do It,” all grades make sure to cheer loud and proud. 

“If you get into it, it’s fun and you’ll enjoy it more,” Howe said. 

Timmers, Parker, and Howe all agreed the best advice they have for the underclassmen is to not be afraid to be loud; the student section sounds way better when everybody cheers together.

Upcoming themes include Blackout, White Lies, Orange Out, Pink Out, Adam Sandler, Teal and Purple, and Halloween.