Traveling Student Section!

by Leah Brown

South history was made during the past fall and winter seasons, as the boys’ soccer and basketball teams, in addition to the football team, made it to the playoffs for the first time in numerous years. Of course, the South community applauds the coaches and players for these achievements; however, there is an often unrecognized group that deserves recognition when discussing the success of these teams: the Student Section.

As soon as the fall sports season began in early September, South students made it their mission to “pack the nest” to show their teams support. Not only were students present in high numbers during games, but they also actively engaged in chants, songs, and cheers, and brought posters to show their support from the stands.

Home games such as Homecoming, Friday Night Lights, and Soccer Senior Night were packed; however, it was rare to see away games filled with the same level of energy and passion from the Falcons. Being an athlete himself, senior Elijah Espinal understood how much crowd presence and seeing familiar faces could make a difference during away games. Therefore, he made it his mission to create the Traveling Student Section.

During the two seasons, a group of around 10 or more South students came together and found ways to attend away games in order to cheer on their fellow Falcons. The section traveled from Lynbrook to Long Beach, and even as far as Carle Place, with the sole purpose of supporting their teams. Players appreciated the support from their classmates so much that football captain Daniel Casey believes the section’s energy helped the team earn a spot in the playoffs.

Although the Traveling Student Section was an amazing way to unite the student body and bring a sense of pride to the teams, the group did face some adversity during their travels. Some schools, such as Division High School, viewed the Falcon pride as excessive, especially when the section continued cheering even when their team was ahead. Section members reported bottles being thrown at them and even hearing hateful or derogatory remarks during halftime. However, these experiences did not deter the students. Instead, they strengthened their school spirit, as they continued to chant and cheer louder, helping lead the South football team to an award-winning and record-breaking victory.

Overall, the Traveling Student Section was an extraordinarily influential factor in the success of South’s fall and winter sports teams. Let’s give recognition to the individuals who truly pushed for South unity through sports and continue that spirit into the spring season.