Jeff Tully
They don't tackle opponents, they don't get their uniforms dirty
and all of their athletic endeavors take place on the sidelines.
However, the cheerleaders in the Burbank Vikings Youth Tackle
Football program are much like their gridiron counterparts, putting
in long hours of practice to perfect their craft.
The cheerleaders were out in force at Burbank High Saturday,
rallying the crowd and motivating the players at the annual Vikings
homecoming celebration.
The event began at 9 a.m. with games that went on all day and into
the night. Portable light standards were even brought in so some
Vikings teams were able to play night games at Burbank High. It was
only the second time evening games have been played on the field.
As the Vikings teams battled it out with opponents in front of
packed stands, the organization's cheerleaders made their presence
known.
"All the girls are just excited and happy to be out here today for
the homecoming," said Debbie Christie, Vikings' cheerleading
director.
"These girls have been working hard since August, and they put a
lot of time and effort into what they're doing. They are out here
because they want to help out the football teams."
Christie also said the program has gotten a boost from some of the
local schools.
"We have cheerleaders from Burroughs, Hoover and Providence who
have come out to help our girls and to teach them," she said. "It's
just great to have them out here with us."
Samantha Walbert, who cheers for the Junior II Black team, said
being on the Vikings' squad is a thrill.
"I just love being out cheering for the team," she said. "It's fun
because we get to do new cheers and try new things."
Ashley Edner, who is also a cheerleader for the Junior II Black
team, said getting the crowd into the game is important to her.
"We can get the crowd motivated with our cheers," she said. "I
think we also help out the team win."
Along with the games, there were also traditional homecoming
activities. Many of the Viking teams named homecoming queens and
princesses, who were judged on teamwork, spirit, work ethic and
attendance.
On the field, a league championship was won for the Vikings when
the Seniors defeated the Canyon Cowboys, 20-14. With a 6-2 record and
a 4-0 mark in league, Burbank takes home the Pacific Youth Football
League Central Conference championship.
Burbank struck first in the game when quarterback Keith Hoefull
connected with receiver Robert Linda for a touchdown.
