As the sports seasons morph at Mineola High School, most student-athletes find themselves with new teammates under the tutelage of different coaches every few months. However, one team acts as the unsung heroes for the other squads and bucks this trend. Their physical prowess is no less (and maybe more) demanding than any other group donning a uniform during the school year. And, the degree of difficulty is, at times, far worse than any experiences on the gridiron, court or diamond combined. The sport has grown in popularity but receives little recognition in local circles. With the outdoor facilities dimmed and the hardwood and gym mats seeking the light, the contributions of these devoted young ladies who call themselves the Mineola Mustang Cheerleaders should be noted and respected.

Under the guidance of coach Melissa Scuccimarri, 14 talented adolescents work year round to master a challenging craft which requires alternative feats of physical exertion. Cheerleading in today's environment is tantamount to gymnastics or dance competitions rather than a spirited script of cheers and pom-poms. The girls, under the captaincy of Laura Johnson and her able assistants, Vera Pereira and Candace Carvalho, are in a constant state of creativity to develop new and challenging choreography and breathtaking stunts designed to thrill and entertain spectators at Mustang football or basketball events.

This summer, members of the Mustang Varsity Cheerleaders attended the Universal Cheerleaders Association Cheer Camp at Hofstra University. Administered by a nationally ranked Top 10 Hofstra Pride team, the Mustangs took first place in the dance division and second place in the cheer division. The girls were the recipient of the Traditions Award given to the best all-around team. At the conclusion of the camp, Johnson was named a UCA All-Star for her individuality. According to Scuccimarri, the added training will certainly benefit the team when they perform their routines live during halftime of Varsity basketball games this winter.

The 2006-2007 squad consists of Ashley and Stephanie Gross, Victoria Perez, Amanda Couret, Marlene and Vera Pereira, Claire Baumann, Patty Ribeiro, Melissa Eligon, Harmandip Kaur, Michelle Silva, Kristina Costa, Candace Carvalho and Laura Johnson. The girls have performed in both rain and shine during the recently completed football season and are staples at the fall and winter pep rallies. The fervor of Mustang fans starts and ends with the efforts put forth by the Mustang Cheerleaders. Go Mustangs!