By Josie Barker
Unfortunately, sideline cheer for football has ended, but don’t fret yet because basketball season is soon, and you’re about to see a lot more of these talented cheerleaders! As someone who does my own cheering (in the bleachers), I love watching this group perform time and time again, so I can’t wait to see what they do next! Here’s an interview I’ve conducted with Breanna Sullivan to provide insight on both the statistics of cheer, as well as the exciting details that follow the duty these incredible entertainers hold.
How many members are there?
There are 15 varsity members, 19 junior varsity members, and 19 competitive cheer members.
How many returning varsity players are there?
10 for sideline and 8 for comp.
How many 4-year members of varsity are there?
In sideline, there’s 2, but in comp, there’s only one, Lily Dyer.
Who are the captains?
Breanna Sullivan, Millie Gorospe, and Lily Dyer.
Who are your coaches?
Mia Davis (head coach), Andrew Nguyen (varsity/JV coach), and Kelly Sutton (Interim coach).
What is a quote from your coaches or from the players?
“Keep it calm.”
What are the stats from last year?
In varsity we didn’t place for competition season but for stunt we won every game except one (6 games – won five).
Did you go to the playoffs last year?
No.
What is your last league title?
In 2023 we got first place in stunts.
When was your last time in the playoffs?
2023
How long has the coach been the head coach?
This is her first year.
How would you describe the strength of the team?
We are a truly strong team. I would say we’re very closely winded together.
What are your goals for this year as a team?
I want us to get more consistent in tumbling, as well as in spirit and fun during rallying.
How often do you practice?
3 times a week plus a game during football and basketball season.
What’s your favorite part of being in this team?
I love to lead a crowd and to have the ability of trusting the people around you, especially as a flyer since you need trust to have people throw you around.
What is your favorite season?
Stunts
What’s the hardest part about being a cheerleader?
Still being able to be physically strong even if you are mentally strong. Things will go wrong.
Do you have a favorite routine you’ve done this year?
Our “Rock Your Body” halftime routine!
What’s something most people don’t realize about being on the team?
It’s a huge time commitment and it’s physically draining. It’s probably one of the most dangerous and draining sports.
What’s the funniest memory you have from practices or performances?
One time I was so tired I couldn’t stop laughing uncontrollably so my coaches made me run.
Who on your team is the best at keeping everyone’s energy up?
Usually during the sidelines, it’s the captains, but for competitions it’s Morgan Wallace and Hana Tomita.
What injuries have you had?
I sprained my ankle 3 times, and received 2 concussion watches. My friend Paige Serrano got two concussions, tore her achilles, got a shoulder dislocation, a broken nose, black eyes, and she broke her pinky.
What are your thoughts on this year?
I think that it’s a lot more encouraging having the coaches that we have, and it seems like there’s been a lot more support from them knowing that even if we mess up they’ll take the things that we did good on rather than the things we didn’t do good on.
