The South Shore News & Tribune
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Lennard Junior Cheers On Fellow Longhorns
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Published: October 1, 2008
RUSKIN - Among the most fervent supporters of the Lennard High School sports teams are Karena Stephens and her teammates on the varsity cheerleading squad.
The squad's main goal this fall has been to energize the crowds during varsity football games.
"Football is my favorite sport to cheer for because we get to be outside, and I just think the game is more exciting," said Stephens, whose brother, Jamar is a wide receiver and cornerback on the team.
The squad cheers during football games in the fall and basketball games in the spring. They are also scheduled to participate in two cheerleading competitions in January and March.
Stephens has been a member of the varsity cheerleading team each of her three years at Lennard, and has been cheering since age 7.
"I remember that trying out for cheerleading was my idea when I was little," Stephens said. "I thought it'd be fun, so I just decided to try out."
On top of having fun, Stephens is seriously committed to the cheerleading team.
"She's very motivated and a very good leader," said Takia McClendon, coach. "She brings the same vigor to the field that she does to the classroom."
Once Stephens graduates, she hopes to continue her education at either the University of Central Florida or Florida A&M University.
Until then, she's going to enjoy rooting on her fellow Longhorns.
"My favorite things about cheerleading are bonding with the girls on the team and that we get to entertain the fans." Stephens said.
GET TO KNOW
WHO: Karena Stephens
AGE: 16
SCHOOL: Lennard High School
GRADE: 11th
SPORTS: Cheerleading
PLANS: Wants to attend the University of Central Florida or Florida A&M University and become an accountant.
Reporter John Ceballos can be reached at (813) 865-1555 or jceballos@tampatrib.com.
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