Cheerleading able to support Windham teams

The entire Windham High cheerleading team is
shown in a photo during the first 7 vs. 7 football
game at Windham on Oct. 24. Cheerleaders
include Briley Smart, Bria Campobasso, Riley
Parker, Elexis Crommet, Kenzie Leask, Chloe
Fitts, Natalie Adams and Celina Sayed. 
PHOTO BY BARI CAMPOBASSO 

By Matt Pascarella

In her first year as head coach of the Windham High School cheerleading team, Bari Campobasso knew there was a high probability of not having a regular season because of COVID-19. It was very important to Campobasso and Windham athletic director, Rich Drummond, that whatever they could provide or create for the team be done. This season was about coaches, staff, athletic department and others making the most of whatever they could for the teams and students athletes.

The cheerleading team originally didn’t think they would be able to attend games, so their practices consisted of conditioning, jumping and motion drills, going over technique and making posters to show support for fall teams.

The squad had their first team meeting in early September and shortly thereafter their first team practice. They practiced twice a week and later bumped it up to three times a week. The team was able to cheer at two 7 on 7 football games and two boys’ varsity soccer games.

Campobasso said when they were able to cheer at a few games it was huge. It goes without saying that this was an unusual season. In accordance with MPA guidelines, they did not do any tumbling or stunting, which is building a pyramid displaying dexterity and skill. All practices were held outside and the athletes were masked and stood six feet apart.

Although there were no spectators, they were able to cheer and show their support for the Windham High School teams. Campobasso said she was grateful the team was able to experience what they could, especially the seniors.

“The season’s definitely been different,” said senior Bria Campobasso. “It’s not what we’re used to, but
I know we’re appreciative to be back and cheering for the boys.” Campobasso went on to say the team’s favorite thing was being back together, being able to socialize and be back with everybody and to have a sense of normalcy.

Coach Campobasso added she is trying to expand the program and get the team more involved in different ways within the school and community. Recently, she did Virtual Storytime Videos for Windham Primary School & Raymond Elementary students. The team made videos of themselves reading a children’s story, in their uniform, and submitted it to the RSU14 webmaster for the Elementary students to access so they could be read to by the Windham High School Cheerleaders. 

“There are a lot of little eyes on this team that watch what they do and how they act. It is important that
they lead by example and encourage others to do the same,” said Campobasso.

It is important that the Windham High School cheerleading team is a positive role model, not just for younger kids, but to their peers as well. Campobasso said her team can accomplish this by promoting kindness & positivity, having good attitudes, leading by example, being supportive, promoting strength & confidence and being approachable.

“I’m extremely proud to have these girls as my team this season,” said coach Campobasso. “The majority of them showed dedication, perseverance, adaptability and all with good attitudes. I know they all wanted to be able to do more this season ... but they never (waiver) from being there.” <