If you have ever attended a Saucon Valley football game, you know that the cheerleaders who support the team work very hard to keep school and community spirit high. In addition to their feats of athleticism, the cheerleaders engage with fans and promote the school in a positive light at events outside of games. That’s why we are shining a spotlight on this year’s 11 senior cheerleaders, including Melissa Link.
Melissa Link
Melissa Link
Q: How long have you been cheerleading? Who have you cheered for (if anyone) besides Saucon Valley High School?
Three-and-a-half years at Saucon Valley.
Q: How did you become interested in cheerleading?
My mom was a cheerleader and I know how much she loved it. It really made me want to follow in her footsteps, and I did. She was captain and now I am captain of my team.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about being a member of the Saucon Valley cheerleading team?
Definitely creating a bond with people who have the same passion as I do. We all really do become a family and I am so sad it is my last year.
Q: What is the best cheer to get the crowd going at a Saucon Valley football game?
Definitely “S Pump It Up!” We go over to the student section and get them involved and they love it.
Q: Who has helped you or inspired you as a cheerleader?
My mom. My first year I was so nervous about learning the dance, so she helped me break it down and made it easier to pick up the dance. She now comes to every game and supports me through every game.
Q: What are your future plans and do they involve cheering?
I plan on going to college and majoring in special education, with a minor in psychology. I’d love to continue cheering in college but I’m not sure what college has everything I want yet. So hopefully whatever college I go to has a cheer team because I’d love to continue my passion.