Cunningham High School’s cheer squad is gearing up for another demanding and potentially historic season, bringing back a core group that knows exactly what it takes to support championship-caliber teams from August through March.
Jam-packed with dedication and school spirit, this year’s squad is prepared for cold games, long bus rides and deep postseason runs, having cheered at multiple state championship games in both football and basketball. The athletes are focused on fueling energy at pep rallies, revitalizing spirit weeks and filling the halls with Cunningham pride as they back an athletic program accustomed to performing on the biggest stages.
Leading the way are seniors Nora Huff, Gracie Smyth and Grayci McCurry, whose chemistry off the floor translates into high standards and accountability at every practice and game. The trio has become a model for younger teammates, blending friendship with leadership as they set the tone for work ethic, enthusiasm and resilience.
Huff, in particular, has built a résumé that mirrors a dynasty run, cheering Cunningham to state titles in football in 2025 and basketball in 2024, along with multiple runner-up finishes and a fourth-place basketball showing in 2026. Through coaching changes and small rosters, she has been the steady influence behind the scenes, known for reading the crowd and calling the right cheer at the right moment, regardless of the score.
A talented sophomore group of Maelyn Jump, Raven Koester and Keyonna Raney returns to the sidelines after injecting major energy into last season. Jump, the program’s quintessential unsung hero, brings a background in ballet and dance and a reputation as one of the hardest workers, evolving from a hesitant junior high athlete to a confident flyer willing to push past her fears.
Freshman Carly McGuire rounds out the roster and is already turning heads with her positivity and poise. A multi-sport athlete in volleyball, basketball and track, McGuire arrives with junior high experience as a reliable back spot and now looks to carve out her place in high school, helping ensure Cunningham’s cheer tradition remains in capable hands for years to come.
