Superfanz is the Sandburg student section that is student led and runs most of the exciting events that students experience here at Sandburg. A lot of time and commitment is put into getting students excited, especially around homecoming, and the behind the scenes of planning is just as exciting for the members in Superfanz. The process of picking the right seniors to do the job is important for the school to have a fun year ahead.
Seniors are chosen in their late junior year based on traits that make them stand out. Ms. Abdel-Aziz, club sponsor, said “You want them to be loud and energetic…we look for someone who will bring the energy!”
Superfanz is a very popular club to join and normally has 50 applicants that is slimmed down to 30. These 30 are picked based on their applications with a teacher letter of recommendation. Applicants are then interviewed by the current students to guarantee a successful following year. Besides the application, personality is super important as well.
Zion Mitchem, 2025 superfan, says, “Don’t be scared. Superfanz is a club where you literally have to give your all” and “let your guard down and show that you have that school spirit.”
School spirit is the main trait a future applicant can bring. Being able to cheer up a crowd and get excited for your school is a requirement. Superfanz is looking for people who don’t have shame in cheering on their school and aren’t embarrassed when embracing their school spirit.
“No one is going to judge you, we’re all here for the same thing so really embrace that school spirit!” Zions said and speaks to the job as a superfan to be entertaining and to entertain a crowd no matter the size. Picking the right students for the following year is super important to keep the streak of making it to state or becoming finalists happen.
Sandburg has been recognized for their outgoing student section and has won the IHSA state championship three times (2017, 2021, and 2023) in addition to the four years they have been IHSA state finalists(2018,2019,2020,2024). However, the entire year leading up to IHSA competitions, matters. From the media aspect to their community work, the pressure is on from August to March.
Each year Superfanz hosts several events including a Walk for Cancer, thefootball games, and a Trunk or Treat for little kids around the spooky season. But by far the football games have to be the biggest crowd pleaser.
Zion Mitchem said the best part of her year with Superfanz so far was, “that rush and that spirit feeling before the game when everybody´s putting the paint on and getting the props ready for the crowd.”
The Sandburg student section is continuously excited for the games and show up dedicated to their school because of the Superfanz. Themes are picked with the intention of something trending among schools and something all of Sandburg would be thrilled about. Overall the entire year is planned to keep Sandburg excited and hyped for the year, which encourages future classes to join.
Superfanz teaches students to embrace their high school experience and to have spirit and pride for their school. Students are encouraged to join and Ms. Abdel- Aziz said “I want them[ Superfanz] to look back on their senior year in May and reflect and see all of the great things that they’ve done. Because it is more than just, ´Hey! This is a theme I want to do for a football game.”
Superfanz allows students to get hands-on experience their senior year. Through volunteering and hosting fun events for their school, the Sandburg Superfanz increases school spirit and creates timeless memories.
