Cheer tryouts on March 29 welcomed five new cheerleaders to the team, along with 11 returning members. Incoming freshmen Quinn K, London R, and Erin R will be a part of the 2026-27 cheer squad along with upcoming sophomore Emme P and junior Jazlyn E. Heading into the approaching season, the team has big plans to succeed and create a fun, bonded environment.
During tryouts, a panel of judges are brought together to score each athlete on their skill and abilities. While tryouts can be a stressful experience for many, this system ensures that each team member is chosen without bias and solely on the judges’ scores.
“The toughest part about tryouts was the nerves,” states returning member Sydney W. “I get really anxious, so waiting for the call is always stressful.” Incoming freshman Quinn K adds that memorizing and performing all the required dances and cheers is a tough part of tryouts.
Heading into the season, coach Summer Rieke hopes to build a team of girls that can support and help one another on the path to success. One of her targets is to ensure that each team member is on the same page prior to the season starting.
“One of my main goals for this season is to continue building a strong, connected team through intentional bonding,” explains Rieke. “At the beginning of the season, we come together as a team to set both group and individual goals, which helps create a shared sense of purpose and accountability.”
Throughout the season, the girls will undoubtedly face stressful situations, which is why cheerleaders must be strong-willed, hard working, and dedicated. It takes effort to stay on top of homework while simultaneously being a committed teammate.
“In order to be a successful member of the cheer team, we look for hard workers, team players, and strong leaders,” remarks Rieke. “Being a cheerleader takes a lot of time and is a lot of work with high expectations.” Sydney W adds, “I think my willingness to try anything really helps me.”
“It’s incredibly rewarding to watch each athlete develop individually while also seeing the team grow stronger together throughout the season,” says Rieke.
