By Chris Cox

Bethel cheer coach Chandi Epperley knows that with each new year comes a new group of cheerleaders and a new dynamic on the squad. This year is no different and she believes this year’s dynamic is one that can help the Bethel cheer team thrive. “This year, the chemistry with this team is something I’ve never seen before,” Epperley says. “They work together. We are stronger, closer, and almost a sisterhood this year.”

This kind of chemistry is something that Epperley has been working to build at Bethel since she became head coach. In her first season she only had nine cheerleaders. Now, in her fourth season, she is up to 21 girls. Epperley believes that kind of growth, and the culture within the Bethel cheer program, is due solely to the leaders of this program, both past and present. “I have to say, every year it’s gotten easier,” she says. “The girls know what is expected. The upperclassmen help the younger girls know what we can and can’t do, how we behave, and how we practice.”

This year’s team captain, Halli Clymer, has been preparing for this role the past four years and Epperley believes that Clymer is just an extension of the coaches. “I could not even show up to practice and Halli would run that practice just fine without me,” Epperley says.

Clymer, to her credit, doesn’t try to overstep. “I just think of myself as one of their big sisters,” Clymer says. “I don’t say ‘I’m the captain, listen to me.’ I like to get their input too.”

One thing Bethel decided to do as a team this year is dedicate their season to one of their fans. With the dedication being a surprise, Bethel cheer is inviting everyone in the community to the football game on October 28, when they will hold a special presentation for that special fan.

The Bethel roster includes: Halli Clymer (Sr), Arianna Graham (Sr), Katelyn Williams (Sr), Cati Parsons (Sr), Piper Whitecotton (Jr), Casey Brock (Soph), Mallie Broxterman (Soph), Chloe Epperley (Soph), Braylie Freeman (Soph), Keelie Holliday (Soph), Kaelyn Roberts (Soph), Asa Ward (Soph), Harley Ayers (Fr), Taylor Boles (Fr), Emma Epperley (Fr), Montea Prewett (Soph), Baylee Tapley (Fr), Brylan Webb (Fr)