Practice is an important part of a team’s success. If they are not willing to put in the work, the team will not be able to reach their full potential. While the work and preparation is important, Blachard cheer coach Caitlin Smith says that team chemistry is another vital part and her squad does a lot of things together to keep their chemistry high.

“Our squad has been swimming this past summer as a team,” she said. “The second day of school we went on a team bonding trip. On that trip, we went bowling, went out to eat, and we went to cheer on our football players at the first scrimmage.”

Junior cheerleader Krissi Norman says that the bond she shares with her teammates is one thing that she loves about her team.

“I enjoy becoming a part of a second family where we all love each other even on the hard days and just lift each other up,” Norman said. “They also become your best friends and the people you constantly want to be around.”

Riley Miller is a senior on the squad that loves the togetherness that she feels as a member of the team.

“The thing I probably enjoy most about cheering for Blanchard is the people,” she said. “Whether we are cheering for another sport or we are competing together, everyone is always supporting each other.”

Chaise Bardsher, who is in her senior year, enjoys what cheer allows her to do.

“I love how cheer allows me to be involved with many different school activities.”

Showing off her school spirit is something that junior Jaycee Martinez appreciates about being part of the team.

“I love cheering for our football games, it is a great atmosphere to be around. Everyone is so involved and every game we have no matter what is happening it’s always a good time.

Mackenzie Keeler, a junior, says being with her team is something that she enjoys the most.

“I enjoy spending time with the team, and the bondings you make with them. My team is everything. You get close with people you wouldn’t imagine getting close with.”