East Kentwood Competitive Cheer 2025 Season Recap: Soaring Higher with Every Tuck
The 2025 winter season was nothing short of remarkable for East Kentwood High School’s Varsity Competitive Cheer team. Under the steady leadership of Head Coach Chris Hudson, the team not only met the challenges of a demanding season but surpassed expectations, setting new benchmarks in skill, resilience, and team unity. With a story marked by perseverance, rapid growth, and a tight-knit team culture, this year's squad left an indelible mark on the program’s history.
A Season of Firsts—and Progress
Coach Hudson describes this season as one of the most exciting and transformative of his tenure at East Kentwood.
“This was an incredible season,” he said. “For the first time since my first year here, we threw tucks in every meet.”
In cheerleading, the tuck is a powerful and difficult tumbling skill, and having it as a consistent component across all competitions is a significant measure of progress. At the season’s outset, the team began with seven tucks, a solid foundation. But through relentless effort, focus, and hours of practice, the team pushed that number to 12 by mid-season, eventually closing the season with an impressive 15 tucks.
That growth was a testament to the team’s unrelenting drive.
“Their dedication paid off big time, with score improvements in every round. I’m so proud of the progress and grit these athletes showed,” Hudson added.
Turning Points and Team Milestones
One of the biggest turning points came early in the season, setting the tone for what was to come. As the athletes pushed to increase their tumbling skills, they set their sights on bumping their tuck count.
“By December 9, we had already reached 13 tucks—up from seven in November,” Coach Hudson shared. “That kind of rapid improvement isn’t just about talent—it’s about heart.”
That determination spread throughout the squad and became a rallying point. The cheerleaders understood what was at stake and worked together to raise the team’s overall performance.
Rising Stars and Expanded Roles
Several athletes distinguished themselves this season by growing into larger roles as the months progressed. Lauren Hawkins, Camille Guyton, and Clara Johnson were initially slated to contribute in just one round. But as the season unfolded and injuries impacted the roster, these athletes stepped up.
“They ended the year as key multi-round performers,” Hudson said. “They filled in for injured teammates, took on more responsibility, and helped carry us all the way to regionals.”
Their flexibility, willingness to learn new routines on the fly, and positive attitude played a major role in keeping the team’s energy and performance level high throughout the season.
Injuries and Adversity: Rising to the Challenge
Like many high-intensity sports, cheerleading is not immune to injuries, and this season brought its share. But rather than letting setbacks break their spirit, the East Kentwood team used adversity as fuel.
“We definitely faced more than our fair share of injuries this season,” said Coach Hudson. “Sometimes they popped up the day of a meet. I’d ask the girls to learn new spots on the fly—and they crushed it.”
Injuries often present make-or-break moments for teams, but the East Kentwood squad took each challenge head-on. Their resilience in the face of unpredictability was one of the most defining characteristics of the season.
“Nothing rattled them,” Hudson emphasized. “No matter what came our way, they adapted and turned every obstacle into a positive.”
Seniors: Leading with Heart
The impact of this year's senior class cannot be overstated. While they brought talent to the mat, it was their leadership and team-first attitude that truly stood out.
“This was an incredible group of seniors,” Hudson said proudly. “Each one stepped into a role that the team needed. Some were vocal leaders, others energized the room, and some provided quiet focus when we needed to lock in. It was the perfect balance.”
In a sport where chemistry and trust are crucial, having seniors who exemplify unity and put the team above themselves made all the difference.
“They were the perfect example of a ‘we before me’ mindset,” he said.
Looking Ahead: New Chapter, Same Standards
As East Kentwood prepares to say goodbye to nine graduating seniors, the focus shifts to the future—a future Coach Hudson is optimistic about.
“This past season has set a new standard,” he said. “I’m confident that our returning athletes—and the new ones coming in—will rise to the occasion.”
The program’s foundation is solid, and the expectations are clear. The lessons learned this year will carry forward as new leaders step up and fresh faces join the fold.
Offseason Priorities: Getting Stronger
Coach Hudson and his staff have a clear plan for the offseason: development. That includes both mental toughness and physical conditioning, crucial elements in cheerleading, which demand technical precision, explosive power, and composure under pressure.
“This offseason, we're focused on building our skills and getting stronger—both mentally and physically,” Hudson explained.
That holistic approach will prepare the team to face next year’s challenges head-on and continue their upward trajectory.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy of Grit and Growth
The 2025 East Kentwood Competitive Cheer team leaves behind more than just improved scores and flashy tumbling stats. They’ve carved a legacy of perseverance, team unity, and growth—a group that refused to be rattled, no matter the challenge.
From seven tucks to fifteen, from one-round roles to full competition contributors, and from injury setbacks to regional qualifications, this team was defined by its grit and its heart.
For Coach Hudson and the East Kentwood cheer community, the season wasn't just about routines and scores—it was about building a culture where every athlete is empowered to push beyond limits, support one another, and chase excellence, together.
Want to follow East Kentwood Cheer and view stats or updates? Reach out to the East Kentwood Athletics Department or contact Coach Chris Hudson directly for program insights and upcoming events.
Share With