OUR BOYS SMASH IT AT STADIUM

CHEERLEADERS and mascots could be sidelined as NRL clubs move to tighten game day budgets to ensure their survival through COVID-19.

Since the 1960s, cheer squads have welcomed fans at the gate, hyped up crowds and supported players through the highs and lows of rugby league.

Now, NRL sides must adjust to a new game day atmosphere of empty stadiums and fake crowd noises – without the squads to cheer them on.

But Cronulla Sharks Mermaids choreographer Jacqueline-lee Elliott is determined to keep the vibrant NRL tradition alive.

“They are great ambassadors for the club, they add a female voice, they’re a massive part of game day entertainment, from greeting fans at the gate to pre-game and halftime entertainment,” she said.

“They also add colour, a bit of fun, and young kids really look up to them.”

Through her company JLD Entertainment, Ms Elliott provides entertainment for various NRL clubs.

The former Mermaid fears clubs will cut back on game day entertainment to survive.

“Seeing how hard the clubs have been hit, there will be a ripple effect in game day entertainment for not only this season and next season,” Ms Elliott said.

“Whether or not clubs will have funds to put a (cheer) squad on the field, I don’t know … it would be really sad for them to go.”

The Mermaids have been training since last October.

Ms Elliott said most fans underestimate the training and commitment required to be an NRL cheerleader – many women work multiple jobs and drive two-hour trips just to perform with the elite squad.

“Being a Mermaid, it’s something they’ve looked forward to growing up, some have auditioned before and finally made the squad, and now they can’t be part of the season,” Ms Elliott said.

“It’s very disappointing, they work so hard.”

Mermaid Emma Dugley said that once it is deemed safe, her squad is determined to return to the NRL.

Picture: ALIX SWEENEY Scott Drinkwater celebrates with teammates after the win.

The North Queensland Cowboys take on the Gold Coast Titans at an empty Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

Jason Taumalolo, Valentine Holmes and Tom Opacic enter the stadium.

The “crowd” at the game.

Even JT’S statue was playing it COVID safe.

An official wears a mask.

Officials must clean their shoes.

Match referee Henry Perenara (centre) conducts the coin toss with Titans’ Kevin Proctor (left) and Cowboy Jordan Mclean.

A Fox cameraman wears a mask.

An official plays it safe.

Cheerleaders Melanie Laird and Mandy Dreger.