Jets Flight Crew Visit the 2010 Big Brothers Big Sisters Gridiron Games
Thanks to former Washington Redskins Cheerleader Princess Agra for this report.
All photos were provided by Frank Rocco Photography
Former New York Giants player Billy Taylor, Krista, Mandisa, Former San Diego Chargers player Kurt Smith, Kayla, Former New York Giants player Stephen Baker, and Crystal
Even though the Jets Flight Crew is relatively new to the NFL in comparison to other cheerleading squads, they are quickly racking up “traditions” in the NYC area! They recently appeared at the New Meadowlands Stadium to celebrate – once again – the 2010 Big Brothers Big Sisters Gridiron Games.
The Gridiron Games is an annual fall event for the BBBS of NYC. Here, big brothers and big sisters of the NYC metropolitan area – including their “Littles” – come to play football on a real NFL football stadium. For some of the “Littles,” this the first time they have ever left their usual urban surroundings. For many, they have never even visited a professional sports stadium – let alone have an opportunity to actually play on the field! Activities for the children included participating in various football tournaments and drills, playing at the “Jets Fest” (a remote play area set-up by the Jets personnel), touring the NFL players’ locker room, and meeting former NFL players AND the Jets Cheerleaders!
From left to right, Veteran Mandisa, Princess Agra, and Rookies Krista, Crystal, and Kayla
The Jets Flight Crew got things started by forming a tunnel for all the Bigs and Littles as they entered the new stadium. Soon after, they proceeded with the morning warm-up on the field – leading stretches for all the Bigs, Littles, referee participants, and staff. After the national anthem, Flight Crew cheerleaders taught sideline routines in the end zone. The addition of the Flight Crew to the games filled a void for Littles who were girls that did not want to play football. According to Gridiron Games chairman, James Rapp, “The cheerleaders have been such a great addition to the games since their first appearance 2 years ago. Having them here allows everyone to participate in the day! Everyone is always excited when they come. They have easily become part of this event.” Because this was their third appearance, many little girls anticipated their arrival and lined up to meet and be taught by the cheerleaders.
From left to right, Veteran Mandisa and Rookies Krista, Crystal (former Washington Wizards Dancer), and Kayla
After the all the activities and lunch, all the participants heard motivational speeches from former New York Giants player Billy Taylor and Stephen Baker, former San Diego Chargers player Kurt Smith, and Jack Brewer, who played for teams such as the Minnesota Vikings and the New York Giants. The Flight Crew then came out to perform an energetic hip-hop routine for the crowd. Afterwards, they invited all the little girls that were taught sidelines to come and perform. Obviously, many of these little girls are future cheerleaders with their fabulous smiles and great moves! The day ended with a performance from a kids rock band.
The second half of the afternoon is where the real fundraising began. Lawyers from various corporate firms compete in a Gridiron lawyer tournament – as well as bid on silent auction items. This portion helps raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for the area charity annually. But, it’s everyone’s participation – such as the volunteers, the players, and the cheerleaders – that truly make this event a success!
