LANSING, MI — On the sidelines, the roar of the Lansing Cowboy’s cheerleaders could be heard loudly on the football field. Blue and white pom poms swaying back and forth while little girls showed their support for team.
For Carmen Pearl, Charvé Chappell’s mother, being on the sidelines involves watching her daughter’s every move on football field. Along with Ms. Pearl’s sister and Charvé’s aunt, Carmella McLemore they keep track of statistics but moreso are there to applaud the efforts of the entire team.
The fourth grader at Pleasant View Middle school was talking to her school mate, Scott, who told her that he was trying out for the Lansing Cowboy’s. She came out to watch him and by the end of the try-outs she wanted to play herself. To no one’s surprise, always determined Charvé made the team.
Children of similar age play together in this youth football program. The Mighty Mites Cowboys are aged 7-8; Novice Level, 9-10; Junior Varsity Cowboys; 11-12 and Varsity, 13-14. After playing for the Lansing Cowboys, the players usually go on to play high school football. The jury is still out on whether Ms. Pearl can see Charvé playing high school football but in Charvé’s mind the sky is the limit.
Coach John Dann said, “When Charvé came out for our first practices. We assumed she was there to become a cheerleader. She wasn’t interested. We said let’s give her a try. She went out and gave 200% and made her presence known.”
Go Girl, Run
Early one brisk Saturday morning, the parking lot was brimming with parents and their children. Charvé a starter had one reception for 10 yards. She was the lead blocker for 2 touchdowns. She plays outside linebacker on defense and tight end on the offense and held her ground on the field. They beat the team they played 26-0. As of the printing of this article, the team is 4-0.
Coach John Dann said, “Anything we ask Charvé to do she has done. Her family has been very active with the program. They like us because we don’t give her any special treatment.”
Businessman Matthew Brown is also a fan of the Lansing Cowboys, he is CEO of Health Care Solutions Agency which is located at 2869 Jolly Rd, Okemos, MI 48864. Brown is also the Director of the Lansing Cowboys. He basically supplies what ever the team needs above and beyond what some of the parents can provide.
Coach Dann said, “When he (Matthew Brown) heard that Team President, Terry Hall, was looking for sponsors, Matt was responsive to the needs of the Lansing Cowboys which consists of about 90 kids, including the cheerleaders. In these economic times, it is good that we have support for all of our players even those whose parents are unemployed or can’t afford equipment.”
Charvé does well in school and family members say she is a very energetic young lady who loves to help and make people laugh.
“She has a passion for sports, art, singing, and dancing. Her favorite subject is Math, in which she currently has an A plus. She strives to do the best in anything that she is involved in and our family is here to support her,” said Ms. McLemore.
For more information, log on to www.lansingcowboys.com.
This article was printed in the October 10, 2010 – October 23, 2010 edition.
