Dec 10, 2009
Orange Crush an astronomical boost for Shepard teams

Loud, proud and decidedly biased, Orange Crush welcomes opponents without apology: They know why youve come to Shepard High School, and theyre not giving an inch.
With more than 200 members, the student cheering section supplies the Astros with a definite home court or field edge and, perhaps, an additional hurdle for visitors to overcome. Dressed and often painted head-to-waist in orange, they cheer for their classmates at home athletic events.
The purpose of Orange Crush is to boost school spirit and make each student proud to be an Astro. The students involved in Orange Crush attend many athletic events and social gatherings. They pack the stands and cheer on all teams, encourage our athletes and congratulate their great efforts, said teacher Scot Rybarczyk, who co-sponsors Orange Crush with Jamie Molina.
Students drive Orange Crushs membership and voice.
We have worked so hard in the past and are planning on many great turnouts this year. It is good to know that this club will withstand generations because of what we help create, Samm Janc, president of the Orange Crush seniors (each class has its own leader). Other Orange Crush class presidents include Chance Cutrano (juniors), Lanisha Foster (sophomores) and Matt Schmeski (freshmen).
While sportsmanship supersedes school spirit for the group, Orange Crush does not spare their vocal chords when it comes to supporting their classmates.
With us in the stands it makes it harder for the other team to concentrate on the game, and it makes our team all that more competitive. My favorite part is when Im leading the Orange Crush and the stands start to rumble, said Matt Morrone.
Key to the groups growth and popularity has been the leadership of Rybarczyk and Molina.
Orange Crush has a lot more student involvement because of the organized sponsors, Mr. Rybarczyk and Ms. Molina. They push for more student involvement and leadership, said senior Ivan Tejada.