At Lakewood High School, school spirit is essential to the student experience. The foundation of this energy is the student sections cheering on the Rangers’ basketball teams.
The student sections boost team morale while fostering a sense of community and pride within the school. However, while both boys’ and girls’ basketball games feature passionate student supporters, there are notable differences in their size, dynamics and atmosphere.
Historically, the crowds at boys’ basketball games tend to be larger than those at girls’ games. That’s a common trend seen across Ohio and many other places — boys’ sports often get more attention.
At Lakewood, the turnout for boys’ games is influenced by traditions, community interest and media coverage. The boys’ team won the Cleveland West Conference last season, garnering widespread community support and recognition. Yet the girls’ program has also stood strong, with numerous seasons above .500 over the last several years.
Girls’ head coach Julie Work has observed these disparities firsthand.
“Throughout my time here, it’s been hit or miss with the girls’ student section. When they’re there, it’s great, and the energy really picks up. We’re used to playing without most of the crowd, so we’ve learned to find ways to bring energy ourselves. But honestly, most kids tend to go to a boys’ game on a Friday night rather than a girls’ game on a Saturday afternoon.”
The boys’ basketball student section is known for its organized chants, coordinated cheers and energetic presence. Students frequently wear themed outfits for the game and participate in spirited routines by the cheer team that amplify the game-day atmosphere. On the other hand, the support for girls’ basketball, while equally enthusiastic, tends to be smaller and less organized.
You can feel the difference as soon as you walk into the gym. At boys’ games, the energy is contagious, often aimed at intimidating opponents and motivating players. Girls’ games, by comparison, often feel quieter.
This difference influences perceptions of gender equity within the school. When girls’ games receive less support, it reinforces stereotypes that female athletes are less valued or less talented. Fostering a lively, inclusive environment can challenge these stereotypes and promote respect for all the Rangers teams.
For Lakewood athletes, student support is a vital boost of confidence and motivation. When players see their peers and classmates rallying behind them, it fuels their effort and resilience.
“I definitely think the girls’ student section is small compared to the boys, but I’ve seen recent uptake in the student section, especially at home games,” sophomore player Ariana Hueter said. “It has gotten better, but not comparably.”
Supporting girls’ basketball at Lakewood benefits the players and sends a powerful message about gender equality. It demonstrates that all Ranger athletes are valued and celebrated equally, reinforcing unity within the school community. This inclusive spirit is already gaining some traction through cross-team support.
“The boys’ games usually draw a larger student section, but I think our boys’ team does attend and help the student section at girls’ games,” boys’ head coach Alexander Cammock said.
At the end of the day, basketball at Lakewood is more than just what happens on the court. It’s about community, pride and making sure every player feels supported and respected. By encouraging more enthusiasm for girls’ games and creating an environment where all teams are celebrated, Lakewood can keep building a school spirit that lifts every athlete and promotes the values of respect, equality and togetherness.
