With excitement building ahead of a new school year, the Southeast of Saline cheer squad is already hard at work preparing for a dynamic fall season. Under the direction of Coach Ashley Long, the team is entering this offseason with a renewed focus on elevating sideline energy, enhancing stunts, and boosting crowd engagement.
Offseason Focus: Energy, Creativity, and Presence
This offseason, the team’s primary goal is to expand its sideline presence by developing new band chant dances and making full use of props such as signs. "It’s all about creating a more interactive experience for the crowd," Coach Long shared. "We want to make every home game feel electric."
New Faces, Fond Farewells
The team is undergoing a shift in leadership and experience with the graduation of three standout seniors—Josie Leeds, Micah Willis, and Kiley Isaacson—who left a lasting impact. Their presence will be missed, especially Josie, who served as a two-year captain. However, the future is bright as new freshmen join the squad, bringing fresh energy and potential to the team.
Preparing for Game Day Glory
With the football team entering the fall as defending state champions and significant upgrades to the athletic facilities—including new turf, a press box, and concession stands—the stage is set for an unforgettable season. The cheerleaders are stepping up their game accordingly, reconfiguring stunt groups, sharpening skills, and coordinating a massive performance with the dance team and twirler for the season opener.
Coach Long is also actively organizing fundraisers in hopes of unveiling brand-new uniforms this year.
Deep Community Roots
Offseason or not, the Southeast of Saline cheer team remains deeply involved in the community. From designing crowd-favorite “Game Day” shirts (sponsored by local businesses) to volunteering at Fall Festivals and leading Jr. Cheer activities with elementary students, the team consistently gives back. They also make it a point to support other athletic programs like volleyball, wrestling, cross country, and track.
Challenges Ahead: Leadership and Longevity
As the new season approaches, the team faces two main challenges: replacing the leadership void left by Josie Leeds and maintaining balance throughout a nearly year-long schedule of practices and events. “Cheer can easily stretch across 10 to 11 months,” Long noted. “It’s crucial to ensure that our athletes have time to recharge while staying focused and motivated.”
Bottom Line:
Southeast of Saline Cheer is embracing change, stepping up its game, and staying connected with its community, all while preparing to ignite the sidelines for what promises to be another thrilling season.
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