MTHS seeks fans who are ‘cut out’ for something different

Calling all sports lovers: Rooting for your favorite teams is different these days, but Middle Township High School has introduced a creative way for you to show support at games.

The Fan Faces program allows would-be spectators to purchase a custom cutout that will help fill the bleachers during all games played in the gymnasium.

Winter sports began this month in New Jersey, but the state is prohibiting spectators at games as a COVID safety precaution. Student-athletes are excited for the opportunity to play, but the excitement isn’t as palpable when the stands are empty.

Cardboard cutouts have been used by pro sports teams since last summer as a stand-in for real-life fans. At MTHS, cutouts will offer the opportunity to fill the gym with familiar faces, and reinforce school spirit and support for athletes. The custom cutouts can depict family members, friends, and even pets, and will be visible at all games and seen on the high school’s YouTube and Facebook Live streams.

“This is a fun way for the community to get involved and positively impact our students,” said Assistant Principal of Athletics Dr. Sharon Rementer. “We borrowed the cutout idea from the pros, but added our own unique Panther Pride spin. We’re committed to keeping spirits high in the district, and this is a great way to be at the games when you can’t physically be at the games.”

The price for a custom cutout is $20 and will be made in-house by designer Maria Mallet.

For more information or to purchase a cutout, please contact Dr. Rementer at: rementers@middletwp.k12.nj.us.

All proceeds raised will support the continuation of athletic programs in the district.