Williamstown High School Cheerleading Season Preview

Offseason Focus: Building a Stronger, Tighter Squad For the Williamstown Cheer team, this offseason is all about laying the foundation for a comeback season. Under the leadership of new Head Coach Samantha Cook, the team is prioritizing general conditioning, team-building skills, and recruitment efforts to re-energize the program. “We’re working on promoting team spirit and physical fitness while building up the roster,” Coach Cook said. Events & Camps in the Works While formal events are still being finalized, Coach Cook is aiming to organize team-building experiences along with camps focused on gymnastics and dance to help the cheerleaders continue growing both athletically and as a unit. Leadership on the Rise Two names to know heading into the 2025–26 season: Avery King and Bianca Dills, the squad’s co-captains and soon-to-be seniors. These athletes are key motivators and role models on the team. “They work extremely hard and put in every effort to be the best they can be,” Cook noted. “We would not be a team without their hard work.” Bonding in Action: Squad Sleepover One offseason highlight was a full-squad overnight at the school gym. The team camped out on the gym floor, played games, watched movies, and shared laughs—all to foster deeper connections off the mat. Strategic Shifts & Coaching Growth Stepping into her new role, Coach Cook is implementing a more disciplined and strategic approach this season to rebuild and strengthen the program. With experience across both elementary and varsity squads, she’s helping bridge generations of cheerleaders at Williamstown. Community Connections The team has already started building local ties—including acting as brand ambassadors for a local tanning salon—and is finding synergy between the elementary and high school squads, creating a pipeline of talent and mentorship. Challenges Ahead One of the biggest goals this year is to boost numbers and rebuild from a nearly dissolved program. With Coach Cook at the helm and a strong leadership core in place, Williamstown Cheer is focused on creating a positive presence in the school and wider community.