Football games are one of the biggest reasons students like going to school in the fall. Cheerleaders and pom and dance are an important part of the game because they pump up the crowd.

CHEERLEADING

“This year, we have a very young team but extremely talented. So, I foresee great things for this group of girls due to their overall talent and with the experience and leadership of our older girls. They work hard and work well together. They truly know what the meaning of “team” is” said Jan Ingram, Head Varsity Coach.

 The team placed first place at the county competition in both the fall and winter season last year. Also in the fall 2013, the girls placed in the top five at the North Regional competition. In both seasons, the girls moved on to the state level to compete with the top 18 schools.

 Ingram said,  “Our plan as a team this year is to maximize our abilities in the competition routine, but also to continue to be a positive spirit squad for LHS at games, pep rallies, homecoming activities, at our Pink-Out game, and to be positive representation of LHS.”

 Captains for the varsity cheer squad, are Kelly Carmichael, Alex Palmer, and Alexandria Hammersla.

 Junior Mariah Strawley, varsity cheerleader, said, “I plan to get a better tumbling pass. I plan to approach the new season with a positive outlook and confidence.”

 Strawley cheered for junior varsity football her sophomore year, as well as for the varsity basketball team in the winter. “I am a gymnast and I wanted to support my school,” said Strawley.

 Strawley’s only concern is “falling while doing my tumbling sequence.” Lancer cheerleaders compete in the winter. As stressful as competitions are, Strawley said she likes them best because she loves to show her skills and her enthusiastic personality.

 Cheerleaders have “team work, leadership, and a great coach,” said Strawley.

“I am proud to be an LHS cheerleader because they are known for being a great squad and having amazing sportsmanship, it is an honor to be a part of that,” said sophomore varsity cheerleader Cheyenne Tipton.

POM AND DANCE

“Our team is closer this year than we have been in the past. I think this helps us work better together to execute great routines,” said Poms dancer member Moe de La Viez.

“I am trying to keep a positive attitude and work as hard as I can to show that the  poms team is better than before,” said de La Viez. “Football games are more enjoyable to me. It’s something about the bright lights and the people in the stands that gives you a rush.”

Head pom and dance coach Michelle Richardson said, “My team is amazing, and they really work hard. There is always things we can work on though to make the team and year better. We are constantly working on technique and raising the bar as well as trying to add different styles to our routines.”

 “Over the summer we attended a UDA camp and the new team won third place in home routine. We also received a team full out for the routine the team learned during camp and reworked to compete against the other teams at camp,” said Richardson.

 Captains of pom and dance are Jenn Berardi, Harper Lindsay, and Abigail Montgomery.

 Choreography is done by the captains and others who contribute ideas.

 “Songs are always a mix. We try to do different genres over the season. This week it’s a Bon Jovi mix. After that is still in decision.” said Coach Richardson.

Gallery • 3 Photos

Michelle Richardson

Poms at summer camp