As the second semester begins, the Normal West cheerleaders have a busy season ahead of them.
With competition season in full swing, the team has already seen success and is focused on continuing to grow both on and off the mat.
Seniors Kasyn Frost and Lindsey Stoewer as well as junior Mariah Crawford, who serve as bases and a flyer, have each spent multiple years on the team.
Frost and Stoewer have been on the squad for four years, while Crawford is in her third year.
Together, they help lead a team that practices nearly every day for about two hours, totaling around 10 hours per week, with competitions typically held on Saturdays.
The team recently hosted a competition and earned a major win at the Big 12, marking an exciting moment in their season.
“We did really good,” Kasyn said. “We had a 92, and the second-place team had an 86, so even if we would have fallen, we still would have won.”
Beyond wins, the cheerleaders emphasized how the competition season has strengthened their bond.
“I feel like it really grows our bond with each other,” Crawford said. “It’s really about working together and fighting through challenges together and building a friendship.”
For these girls, this time of year is their favorite part of the season.
“January is when we finally start getting in a groove with our routine,” Stoewer stated. “Competing and showcasing our skills is my favorite part.”
However, the season has also brought challenges. The captains claimed that helping underclassmen
understand the importance of their roles has been a focus.
“Everything that they do has a big impact on how we do,” Frost explained.
Others noted the importance of motivation and effort.
“Getting everybody to try their best 100% of the time is hard, because if we’re not all trying the same amount, it isn’t fair to everyone else,” Stower said.
To handle pressure, the team relies on constant encouragement and communication. During practices and performances, they use positive talk and small gestures of support.
“We always encourage each other and remind everyone they’re not alone,” Lindsey Stower expressed. “There are 15 other people on the mat who are there for you,” Crawford
The team described their overall energy as “determined” and “positive.” Looking ahead, their goals include placing in the top three at sectionals and advancing to day two at state.
“We’ll reach those goals by working together and making sure everyone wants it just as much as the person next to them,” Crawford said.
Representing Normal West at competitions is something the team takes pride in.
“It means putting on a proud, confident face and showing everyone what we can do,” Crawford claimed.
With upcoming competitions, including travel for major events, the Normal West cheer team is preparing for an intense and exciting second semester as they continue to push toward their goals.
