The Unified Cheer Team is one of the many student spirit activities that bring positive energy and entertainment to Westside. The team participates in several events throughout the year, including practices twice a week during school, cheering at games and pep rallies, and performing at the state championships to finish out the season.
For Unified Cheer, practices consist of a few different activities. The team starts by sitting in a circle in the center of the gym and asking a fun question. They talk about things like “What did you do over the weekend?” or “What’s something you’re looking forward to?”
Afterwards, the team practices for whatever season they are approaching. Basketball season is going on, so a dance routine is being learned to perform at halftime. During football season, the team practices their game day cheers to take to home football games.
Learning a routine in a short period of time can be difficult, but the cheer team has come a long way.
Every year, the team takes a creative performance choreographed by the senior captains to the State Competition in Grand Island, NE. This year, the event was held on Feb. 22nd. Seniors Logan Carl and Sienna Inbody are the captains for this season, and have put lots of effort into the routine.
“It has been so fun getting to help lead our Unified Cheer team this year!” Carl said.
She has been a member all four years.
“I’ve gotten to learn leadership skills from past captains, which has definitely made this process easier.” Carl said.
As a captain, Carl’s goal for the team headed into state is to enjoy every moment.
“We tend to get caught up in the outcome, but I want to stress the importance of enjoying our time together as a full team, and make sure we all have fun going to state!” Carl said.
Franny Bartling has had a great experience so far as a senior on the team. Her goal is for the team to perform confidently at state.
“I love getting to help out with all the athletes and be a leader for the team.” Bartling said. This year, Unified Cheer has two new coaches. Angela Bergman, Science Department Chair, loves working with students in a fun way that isn’t academic.
“I like that we can work together for a goal and have fun doing it,” Bergman said. “Watching everyone learn cheers and gain confidence is fun! That is for sure my favorite part.”
Bergman is most looking forward to seeing how the routines turn out at both state and athletic events.
“I was amazed at how fast everyone learned the basketball and talent show routine and the stunts!” Bergman said. “I can’t wait to see how the rest of the routines come together.”
The other coach, Anne Johnson, teacher in the world language department, loves the energy that the team brings each practice.
“Our Unified Cheer mods are always so fun and positive,” Johnson said. “Our partners are so helpful, supportive and positive, and our athletes are such hard-workers, spirited and fun!”
Johnson is most excited to highlight the hard work of her team at the state level, and see other teams’ accomplishments over the season.
“I can’t wait for the Unified Talent Show to see our team showcase their other talents,” Johnson said.
Both coaches are extremely proud of their athletes’ and partners’ hard work throughout the year.
The Unified Cheer Team has been preparing every practice to compete at the state competition, but the feeling that comes with competing is most valuable.
“The coolest part of all that learning is knowing that there is a sense of accomplishment for our students that goes with it,” Bergman said. “They know they were able to do this hard thing and be successful. That kind of accomplishment goes further than the event or task itself.”
With the positive energy and supportive coaches and captains to assist, Unified Cheer is ready to take on the state championship challenge!
