By Ruby Brensinger ‘29
Going from cheering on a track to the court, the Conestoga Valley cheerleading team works hard every season. The start of their winter season has begun, with a lot of new athletes on the team. Only having 4 returning varsity members has caused a lot of challenges, and hurdles. The new athletes are learning and thriving, with help of their coaches, captains, and teammates.
Olivia Brensinger is a junior who has been on the varsity team for 3 years. She said, “I am excited to help the new athletes learn and enjoy cheer!”
Some of the things that the new girls have to learn include stunting, chants, and jumps. Freshman Kriti Dhimal, a new member, said, “The most exciting thing I’m ready to learn about cheerleading is about stunting and working with my teammates to make the best performance.”
The coaches agree that new athletes can bring excitement, talent, and energy to the team, and the coaches agree. Coach Paula Gaulthier said, “Each new athlete comes with new strengths. It fosters growth for the team at an individual level.” Coach Shannon Portales added that the girls “have a desire to learn, and that is encouraging.”
The coaches express their excitement for having new athletes join, and learn to love cheerleading. This season will look like hard work and determination. This season will also have a lot of learning and mistakes, but the energy and supportiveness of the team will bring the spirits up.