The cheer team took on new knowledge during the 2024 MCCA (Missouri Cheerleading Coaches Association) competition season.
“I have learned many new skills involving my stunt group and personal growth in leadership and teamwork,” junior co-captain Jovi Robertson said.
The cheer team competed a total of three times. The first was on Sept. 21 at the St. Louis Regional, placing 5th; the second competition was the Kansas City Regional on Sept. 29, placing 4th, and the team placed 7th at state on Nov. 2.
Competition has been a new event for the WHS cheerleading program this year. The team received a positive impact from their experience.
“We did well at comp and we all tried our hardest. We had been working very hard for this and it was a good experience because we got to truly work as a team and do our best,” sophomore varsity co-captain Bella Schwartz said.
“I had a great experience at comp and overall as head captain, I am so proud of the team and I know after I graduate they will continue to grow and do great things,” senior captain Tatum Bohl said.
As a senior, Bohl sees a future in continuing her sport in college.
“My love for cheerleading has grown so much and I couldn’t imagine not doing it,” Bohl said.
The team had goals that they looked forward to achieving this season.
“We have had many season goals. I think our overall goal was to stay committed all year. I believe the girls have done that every day since summer practices started, by showing up and staying committed. I have multiple girls who are involved in different sports and activities that make sure when they are at practice or a game they are giving 110%,” head coach Brooklyn Hetherington said.
Overall, they claim that they have grown as individuals and as a team to further improve.
Next year moving ahead, the cheer team wants to continue their development in competitions. They plan to become a stronger unit in the years to come.
The freshmen reflected on their progression as individuals.
“I have learned that you need to be accountable and you need to be responsible,” freshman Abigail Burnham said.
She plans to take those qualities into account for the following season. Attending competitions this year had an overall positive effect on the team, as they were able to get a better understanding of who they were as individuals.
