Pawnee High School’s cheer team may be the smallest Coach Liz Mitchell has led in her 14 years at the school, but size has never limited their spirit or impact. From the first day of cheer camp in May, the team dedicated themselves to summer practices, showing up two to three times a week with minimal absences and no drama. Mitchell credits their success to one thing above all: teamwork. “They stayed true to our core roots and made the most of our time together. Win or lose, they always love their Black Bears,” she said.
The team’s commitment extends far beyond the gym. Each Friday morning, the cheerleaders meet with elementary students, spreading school spirit to the youngest members of the Pawnee community. They also participate in community service projects, collect school supplies and gift cards to surprise teachers on the first day of school, and share pre-game meals with the football team every Thursday evening. The bonds they form off the mat are just as important as the routines they perform on it, and the cheerleaders embrace every opportunity to support their school and community.
Even with a smaller roster, the energy of the team never falters. Senior Kennedy Cottle says her favorite part of cheering is the excitement that comes when the crowd matches the energy of the cheerleaders. “What I enjoy most about my team is when we are all laughing together and when we accomplish new skills, and everyone enjoys each other’s company!” she said. Senior Carsyn Dunbar echoes that sentiment, adding, “My favorite thing about the team is how close we are; cheering with my best friends is beyond the best thing I could ask for in a team! The community makes it easy to cheer for the boys because they are cheering just as much as we are.”
A highlight of the season comes when a few senior football players join the cheerleaders during game day competitions. Their presence adds an extra layer of energy and excitement, pushing the team to give everything they have on the mat. For Pawnee’s cheerleaders, the experience is about more than stunts and chants, it’s about community, friendship, and the pride that comes from representing their school with heart, spirit, and unwavering dedication.
