![Held up by a group of cheerleaders, flyer sophomore Leyu Yonas poses as part of a stunt, also supported by flyer junior Shayne Mitchell behind her. (Left) Prior to the pink out football game on Oct. 13, the athletes practiced in the aux gym from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Right) On Oct. 19, the cheerleaders competed in their District Championships at Woodgrove High School. “We definitely put all our effort on the mat [at Districts], and it showed,” Mitchell said. Left: Photo by Nadia Shirr. Right: Photo by Steve Prakope via Victor O’Neill Studios.](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/feature-image-1200x823.png)
![Sophomore Xavier Smith (6), the Phoenix quarterback, runs the ball as his teammates help hold up the defense. “My [offensive] line collapses, so I just [have to run], and its a good way to get first downs because [Tuscarora’s] defense was really good,” Smith said.](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_5383-1200x897.jpg)
![As the referee throws the ball up for the tip-off, freshman Simone Diby leaps towards the ball to get it in Phoenix possession. Diby is a new member of the Phoenix girls basketball team, and despite it being a change, she finds it enjoyable. “It’s definitely a different experience if you’ve never played on a team, [but] I think it’s still fun.”](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DSC_0057-1200x662.jpg)
On Monday, April 29, the Phoenix boys tennis team went head-to-head against the visiting John Champe Knights. Through their unwavering focus and exceptional skills, the Phoenix secured wins across the board in both their singles and doubles rounds. Overall, the team won 9-0, making this the eighth straight sweep for the Phoenix this season.
Despite the extreme heat, the Phoenix boys didn’t give up a single match and proved themselves as tough competitors. “It was really hot, but we got the job done pretty easily,” sophomore Akash Vangala said.
This game was a testament to how dominant the Phoenix have been on the court this season. They have only lost to one school, making them nearly unstoppable. The Phoenix have their eyes set on one thing as the season nears the end: winning states. “Today’s game was just light work,” sophomore Sathvik Mathi said. “Our real goal is to make it to states and hopefully win.”
The chances are looking good for the Phoenix as they continue to get stronger with each passing moment. “We’re feeling pretty confident,” said sophomore Harsha Antham. “I think we have a good shot of winning states this year.”
The Phoenix play the Heritage Pride for their last home game of the season on May 8th.
