By Matt Browning
Before the start of the cheer season, Hutchinson Trinity coach Bernadett Dillon talks to her team about the importance they have for sporting events.
“At the start of each cheer season, we talk about the importance of being involved in school, school activities and other sports, while still making cheer a priority,” Dillon said. “As a smaller 2A school, student involvement across all areas is essential, and these girls truly embrace that.”
While most of the members of the cheer team participates in other sports or clubs, Dillon tries to be flexible with her scheduling.
“I work to schedule practices in a way that allows them to participate in as much as possible while still committing fully to cheer,” Dillon said. “During the school year, we typically practice one to two times per week. Each practice is important and productive.”
The cheer season is only during the fall and winter sport seasons, but there are things the Celtics work on all year.
“Our squad cheers at all varsity football and basketball games. Then compete in the KSHSAA Game Day Competition in November,” Dillon said. “The spring season is lighter for us, as we wrap up the basketball season and hold tryouts for the next year. During the summer, we practice about 3 times a week and for a bit of a longer period. This time allows us to come together as a new squad, learn material that we will use throughout the school year and to prepare for our annual NCA Camp.”
Carmen Faudoa is the Celtics loan senior and she has been on the cheer squad for four seasons. The remaining seven members are made up of girls that Dillon calls “Small but Mighty Squad.”
“They have worked tirelessly not only in cheer, but also in their other school sports, activities and most importantly their academics,” Dillon said.
