After a historic season that saw Radford Cheer win its 14th Hawaii State Title, 7th NCA National Title, and 3rd NCA Grand National Title, the Rams are heading into a new era. Longtime head coach Dr. Bo Frank, who helped build the powerhouse program, has stepped down to pursue his academic career, but not without leaving behind a legacy of championships, leadership, and unmatched tradition.
Offseason Focus: Tumbling, Stunting & Carrying the Torch
Though the new coaching staff has just been installed, the offseason emphasis remains on tumbling and stunting, key components of Radford’s national-level routines. Recently, the team was recognized at the Honolulu City Council Office at Honolulu Hale, a fitting honor for one of the most decorated high school cheer programs in Hawaii history.
New Leadership: Passing the Baton to Coach Shy Telles-Kuwahara
Radford isn’t starting from scratch. Shy Telles-Kuwahara, a former assistant and trusted leader within the program, has taken over as head coach. “I’m excited that Shy is stepping in,” said Dr. Frank. “She understands the Radford way and is ready to continue our culture of excellence with new energy.”
Graduating Greatness: Farewell to an Elite Senior Class
The Rams are graduating a legendary group of seven seniors: Saxoni Frank, Kirstin Gilkey, Emma Hood, Kaylah Anderson, Sera Sanchez, Keegan Kloster, and Nayah Galicinao—each heading to cheer or compete in acro & tumbling at universities across the country.
Notably, Saxoni Frank (Dr. Frank’s son) is off to Purdue, finishing his high school career as a four-time Hawaii All-Star, four-time NCA High School American, and Nfinity High School All-American.
Players to Watch: Familiar Faces, Fresh Starts
Returning under Coach Shy’s leadership are standout athletes like:
Zyon & Sabre Telles-Kuwahara
Rikki Kalawaia-Verines
Skylly Paulo
Ailyn Dau
Peyton Madariaga
A promising freshman class will join the mix this June, bringing new talent into the fold. Meanwhile, sophomore Parker Creech is set to pursue all-star opportunities in California—proof of Radford’s influence stretching beyond state lines.
Academic Excellence: GPA Meets Conditioning
Radford’s commitment to conditioning extends beyond physical performance. The team’s culture includes academic accountability, with athletes required to maintain A’s in their coursework. Anything less? It’s met with additional conditioning. The result? A consistent team GPA between 3.75–3.9, showing excellence on and off the mat.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Goals
With a strong core returning and new faces rising, the biggest challenge will be team cohesion under a new staff. Still, the mission remains: win championships, send athletes to college, and build lifelong leaders through cheer.
Radford Cheer is more than a team—it’s a tradition. And with the torch passed, the future remains just as bright.
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