Basketball Players Defend Cheerleader With Down Syndrome After Fans Made Fun Of Her
Jan 06, 2020 by apost team
A group of middle school basketball players stopped their game to defend a fellow student with Down syndrome. Desiree Andrews is a cheerleader. Her squad was performing a routine when fans started making fun of her. Three basketball players took notice of the incident and decided to do something about it.
Scooter Terrien, Chase Vasquez, and Miles Rodriguez actually walked off the court during a timeout. They went to their sports director and asked if he could stop the rude fans from bullying Desiree. The players said to Kenosha News they were upset over the fans' actions
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They decided it would be better to stand up for what's right than to continue playing their game. Several people noticed their boldness, including Cliff Andrews, Desiree's father. He couldn't stop the tears from falling and thanked the three eighth grade players for their actions. According to Kenosha News, the basketball players went into the crowd defending Desiree saying, "Don't mess with her."
Cliff said to Kenosha News the popular television show "Glee" gave Desiree the inspiration she needed to go out for the cheerleading squad. "Glee" features the character, Becky Jackson, a Down syndrome student who is also a cheerleader at her school.
The basketball players now have a wonderful relationship with Desiree. They've even nicknamed the gym 'D's House.' School officials say there are talks of creating a 'D's House' banner to hang in the gym. In addition, Desiree greets each player with a high-five before their game begins.
School spirit has increased since that display of kindness.
The players' gesture sent a message--not only about the problems of bullying, but the importance of accepting everyone. According to this generation, God made everyone equal, so everyone should be treated in the same, respectful way.
Be sure to help spread the word showing there are still kind people in this world. We'd also like to hear from you. After watching the video, what are your thoughts on the players' actions? What do you teach your children about bullying and inclusiveness? Let us know your thoughts!