In the third episode of Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) High School Game Day, the Whitehaven Tigers are set to host the Germantown Red Devils in an epic showdown. Both powerhouse teams will enter Whitehaven High School Stadium undefeated, but only one team will walk away with a perfect record.
The sounds of music echoed through the buildings of Whitehaven High’s parking lot as the school’s award-winning marching band, The Sounds of Perfection, prepared for Friday night under the leadership of band director Vincent Smith.
At the heart of the marching band is senior Olivia M., who has served as a drum major since her sophomore year. This year, she was promoted to head drum major, a role she describes as both exciting and overwhelming. “It’s a long time coming,” Olivia said. “Paying attention to the drum majors that came before me helped prepare me to assume my current leadership role.” Her favorite hype song for game day? “I Smile” by Kirk Franklin.
On the field, Cory H., senior linebacker, is ready to lead the Tigers’ defense. A 3-star recruit committed to Michigan State University, Cory is focused and fired up for game day.
“Eat good, sleep good,” he said, describing his game-day ritual. “It’s a big game, but we just have to execute. Everybody doesn’t like extra work, but it gets the laziness out of us.” As the leader of the defense, he takes pride in his role: “It shows that my hard work has paid off and that they trust me to make the right calls and corrections when needed.”
While football takes center stage on Friday nights, it’s the bands and cheerleaders who fuel the crowd’s energy and both schools take that role seriously.
On Whitehaven’s cheer squad, four seniors have been dedicated members since their freshman year: Myla G., Nylah S., Jayla C., and A’Yunah G.
“Making time with my team and bonding together is important,” said Myla G. Nylah S. added, "We make sure all of our cheerleaders are on board,” referencing how their teamwork extends into the classroom. Jayla C., who started cheering in the sixth grade at John P. Freeman Optional School, said, “I take my accountability in learning skills from cheer and putting it into my schoolwork.” To prepare for game day, A’Yunah G. shared, “We like to go over the agenda for the game to make sure we do good.”
Supporting the Whitehaven cheerleaders is a dedicated team of adults: Wynette Flowers Atkins, Ebony Harris, Veranda Moffett, and Alanna Collins.
"I’ve been the cheer sponsor for 10 years,” said Flowers. “I emphasize the importance of their dedication, determination and discipline.” Coach Harris, in her fourth year, added, “Game day isn’t just about the players, it's also about the spirit on the sidelines.”
Over at Germantown High School, their cheer squad is also in game-day mode as they gear up not just for football, but for upcoming cheer competitions. Senior cheerleader Lauryn H. has been involved in competitive cheer since third grade. She says that before every game, the squad unites through a special ritual: “Every game, we do face paint.” Lauryn hopes more people understand the strength and teamwork behind the sport. “We’re picking up girls our size – it’s a team sport. We’re not just screaming, like some people think. We’re encouraging the team to do better.”
Through the arts and athletics, MSCS is fostering the next generation of leaders.
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