Cheer squads spend a lot of time together. There is a lot of practice time, at competitions, and on the sidelines of their school’s athletic competitions. But in order to grow the bond and chemistry of the team, they also need to have some fun times away from cheer too. Chandler’s head cheer coach, Cynthia Snider, says that her squad has a few things that they enjoy doing together as a team.
“We enjoy having swimming parties and eating together,” she said. “Bus trips are at the top of the list. The girls love to bring their music and sing all the way to the games. Overall, I believe our team is very supportive of each other and enjoy being together.”
Senior Anna Phillips likes how she has grown her relationships during her time on the team.
“I love the friendships that have been made and how much fun we have together,” she said. “I love how we can work through hardships as a team, friends, and family. I enjoy destroying all other schools, especially Stroud.”
Calista Schardt is a senior on the team and she says that being on the team is like a second family to her.
“I love the way that we are not only teammates but we have made a strong bond outside of practices,” she said. “Becoming like a family no matter where we are and we know we have each other is also something I like. I enjoy becoming a family with other sports teams and singing the fight song no matter win or loss.”
The excitement around the athletic events at Chandler is one of the tings that keeps senior Erika Russell invested in this team.
“I enjoy being a part of this team because it has so much spirit not only for our school but for life in general. I love the sisterhood each and every one of us girls share.”
Being a part of the community for her entire life, it is second nature to Emi McGuire, a senior, to cheer for the Lions.
“I’ve lived and cheered in Chandler my whole life,” she said. “Chandler is where my heart belongs. When cheering, I get so excited to cheer on my hometown team and I’m reminded this is where my roots are.”
