New South Lakes sophomore Melanie Anderson transferred from long-time rival Herndon High School.
Since 1978, South Lakes and Herndon have intensely competed with each other after many Herndon students were re-districted to South Lakes when it opened.
Now, there is so much hype and excitement before every Herndon-South Lakes sports game. Many students, including Anderson, attended the football game this year.
On top of that, Anderson cheered against her former school.
“It wasn’t that awkward to cheer for South Lakes instead of Herndon,” said Anderson. “It was a little weird, but fine for the most part.”
Anderson says South Lakes and Herndon are very different, but she is already getting acclimated to the new environment.
“I like the facilities at South Lakes, but Herndon was more comforting since those were the people I grew up with and have known since elementary and middle school,” said Anderson.
Anderson transferred to South Lakes because of the art and Japanese program. Art, especially, is one of her favorite hobbies.
“I guess I could say art was my special talent,” said Anderson. “That’s pretty much all I do.”
Besides the art and Japanese program, Anderson is also involved in swim team and varsity cheerleading. Cheer especially has helped her adjust to the new school.
“By trying out for cheer, I met a lot of new people before school even started,” said Anderson.
Anderson is very excited to be a Seahawk and is looking forward to the school year.