Whether during fall, winter, or spring sporting events, one spot on the bleachers is always reserved for the student section. Specifically for basketball, that spot is the “Jungle.” Every game, it is filled with students supporting their siblings, peers, and friends.
During the regular season, the Panthers competed against 14 schools: Pen Argyl, Wilson, Jim Thorpe, Moravian Academy, Notre Dame G.P, Kutztown Area HS, Bangor, Palisades, Salisbury, Northwestern Lehigh, Southern Lehigh, Catasauqua, Palmerton and Northern Lehigh. Each of these schools, some more than others, had popular student sections.
The Jungle is well known for being loud, coordinated, and spirited. Across the vast range of fans, students, and players on the bench, it is incredible to see the combined support that influences a game.
“I think going to games is an integral part of the high school experience! I love getting to support my school while being surrounded by all my friends and peers. And it’s even more exciting to go to games when we have a great team and a successful season,” said senior and Jungle leader Kylah Ferguson. In addition to the lively atmosphere of high school sporting events, some students enjoy the communal spirit found when going to games, while others find the lively banter and competitive energy of the games more compelling.
“I go to the games because I have to as a Jungle leader and I enjoy watching basketball and chirping the players and other student sections,” said senior and Jungle leader Austin Zolnierz.
While the Jungle is there to be a place for students to enjoy the game, that is not the only reason. It is also there to cheer on and have an effect on the athletes competing for a win.
“I do think the Jungle is better than other schools’ student sections. I think so because they are loud and supportive of us. As a player, I think the jungle is a big part of our success,” said junior and varsity starter Jack Robertson.
When it comes down to one or two points during a basketball game, the Jungle is chanting and cheering every chance they get. This, combined with the amount of students in attendance, can help drive our players to stick it out until the clock hits zero.
All in all, students embody the characteristics of a supportive Panther by going to games, uniting in their appreciation for the unforgettable moments with friends found within the spirited arena that is school athletics.
