Cheer team's chore is catching on

TERRE HAUTE, IND (WTHI) - The Principal of West Vigo High School teaches with one main philosophy, "Be nice," and it seems to be catching on.

News 10 visited some cheerleaders after this weekend's game to see what new trend they're starting.

Once the hoops are finished for the West Vigo Cheer Team, they begin their new chore.

“The first thing we do is pick up our own trash. Then, we pick up everyone else’s [trash]," said Jacy McClain a senior as West Vigo High School.  " There are 19 girls…and the janitors already do so much. Why can't we just take some extra time out to help."

These seniors are cleaning up the gym, and they're joined by their teammates.

It's not a mandate from their coach or a requirement of the school.

“We just wanted to do it out of the kindness of our hearts.  It's really easy to walk away and think someone else is going to do it.  We just figure 'why not help out and why not pay it forward,'” said Erin Mundy a West Vigo High School senior

“Some of the fans even started picking up their own trash. We get a lot of thanks and they appreciate it. It's trickling down. It'd a domino effect,” said Erin.

Coach Jane Voils sees the difference her team is making beyond the gym.

“They're leading by example,” said Coach Voils. “They started a tradition now. And I think it'll be carried out and I think they'll add to it. When it's all said and done, the lessons reach far beyond these clean bleachers.”

It’s is clear that this act is something we could all reflect on.