Bullies mock cheerleader with Down Syndrome – basketball players stop the game to step in for her
The heartwarming actions of three young basketball athletes in support of a cheerleader from their own school is winning affection across the nation. Their intervention on behalf of a peer being ridiculed is a powerful illustration of empathy in action.
Navigating the turbulent waters of high school can be daunting, and all too often, the specter of bullying casts a long shadow over the school experience, with insufficient intervention from school authorities to safeguard those at the receiving end.
During a gripping game, Lincoln Middle School players Miles Rodriguez, Chase Vasquez, and Scooter Terrien from Wisconsin, paused the action, upon noticing the derisive behavior of opposing fans towards Desiree Andrews, a cherished cheerleader affectionately known as ‘D,’ who has Down Syndrome. The young men felt enraged and chose to stand by ‘D’ to ensure she was no longer subjected to mockery.
Chase recounted the incident to a Milwaukee news agency, saying, “Some kids were making fun of D in the stands, so we stood up for her.”
“We were upset; it wasn’t right. We reported it to our sports director requesting that those mocking her be spoken to,” 14-year-old Miles narrated.
Desiree Andrews in a photo with a local news team member (Photo Credit: Facebook)
Desiree, a dynamic cheerleader, regularly shows her support for the team with enthusiastic high-fives and fist bumps.
Upon hearing of the basketball players’ supportive action, Desiree’s father, Cliff Andrews, couldn’t hold back his emotion, his tears a testament to his gratitude. He revealed how a particular influence persuaded Desiree to join the cheerleading team, significantly boosting her confidence. Desiree herself expressed her feelings towards the boys’ gallant defense as “sweet, kind, awesome, amazing.”
Post-incident, the teenagers frequently accompany Desiree to her classes, ensuring her safety.
The remarkable gesture has had such an impact on the school environment that there was a notable decrease in bullying, with the focus now on inclusivity and kindness. This narrative has inspired youth nationwide to rise above petty conduct and embrace mutual respect.
Timothy Nieman, the Athletic Director, was profoundly affected by the thoughtfulness of these students. He commemorated their solidarity with a dedicated banner, commending, “This is an exemplar of true team spirit – a unity that transcends the court.”
Scooter reflected later, “It’s just wrong when people are treated unfairly—we’re all created equal. We’re fashioned similarly by our creator.” Indeed, it’s heartening to witness young individuals who grasp the essence of compassion, not tolerating discrimination based on identity.
Watch the heartwarming video here.
