On game nights at Xavier and Brophy the focus is primarily on the scores of games, or on players, but on the sidelines an equally important and often unnoticed group is creating an atmosphere filled with school spirit.
Spiritline and Gatorline play a huge role in shaping the energy of games and events at both schools. Their chants, upbeat routines and athletic encouragement bring students, parents and athletes together, forming an environment built on unity and spirit.
Spiritline is Xavier’s competitive cheer team and its season is year-round. Tryouts are in March and the season ends in late February.
Being a part of Spiritline requires a lot of commitment and dedication. Members cheer at Brophy football games in the fall, compete at various state regionals and attend nationals in February.
“Spiritline brings so much energy and school spirit to Brophy football and Xavier and Brophy pep rallies. We love putting on a show for all students and fans. We get the crowd loud and excited every time!” said head Spiritline coach Kathryn Treadwell.
Gatorline cheers and performs at Xavier home volleyball games and at Xavier and Brophy home basketball games in the fall and winter. Tryouts are in April and the season starts in August and goes through early March.
Although Gatorline doesn’t compete, it still requires a significant amount of commitment and time. Gatorline girls have two morning practices and two to three games a week.
“The girls show up to each game ready to not only cheer on a team, but to also engage with the crowd and lead it through the games,” said head Gatorline coach Stephanie Sassaman.
Gatorline plays a vital role in creating an exciting atmosphere at every game. Their crowd-engaging cheers and half-time performances make games even more memorable.
Both Gatorline and Spiritline contribute to the overall experience students, fans and parents get when attending Xavier and Brophy games. Girls from both of these teams work hard to perfect routines and to give clean, energetic performances, at games and rallies.
During their short off-season many Spiritline and Gatorline members continue to stay active in preparation for their next season. “I love staying active during the off season by taking extra dance classes and stretching when I can,” said Gatorline member Brooke Gillespie ‘26.
Their dedication to cheer and dance is what allows members to perform at high levels, to bring energy to every game and to keep up school spirit throughout the year.
“I feel Gatorline contributes heavily to the spirit of the games,” said Gillespie. “We try to get the crowd as hyped as possible with our catchy cheers.”
