WHS recently conducted their annual tryouts for the 2018-2019 cheer season. All the teams have new and returning cheerleaders this season. This is an exciting time for the upcoming cheerleaders as they get fitted for all their cheer clothes and get prepared for the new season. However, the work does not begin after tryouts but rather weeks before, as cheerleaders prepare for tryouts.

Returning cheerleader, Lauren Shirley said, ” I go to tumbling class weeks before tryouts to perfect my tumbling and jumps.”

Hopeful cheerleaders work hard to perfect their skills.

“The stress of the process is worth the reward,” said Junior Emma Ludwig.

After tryouts, the stress is lifted and the hard work and fun begin. New teams meet up the week after tryouts and get to see their new squad for the first time.

“The first time the whole squad gets together is always exciting because I get to see my old friends and also new cheerleaders that I get to cheer with,” Sophomore Kirsten Lee said. This is not only a special time for those who made the JV and varsity squads but especially for those making the freshman team. This is their first look at high school cheer and what it is like. 

All in all, the hard work from coaches and athletes around tryouts will make for another great season. The 2018-2019 varsity cheer team members are  juniors: Alyssa Dubose, Ellie Alexander, Emma Ludwig, Gabbie Calderon, Grace Ludwig, Lauren Shirley, Madey Betts, Marigrace Coleman, Morgan Wray, Polly Brigman and Tori Osborn; Sophomores: Alexa Barron, Kiersten Lee and Maddie Majors; Freshmen: Abby Rose, Caroline Marsh, Ella Brewer, and Presley Richmond. In addition to these cheerleaders is the WHS mascot, Madison Zandt.