GRAND RAPIDS, Mich (GRPS) -- The Ottawa Hills cheerleaders are gearing up for an electrifying season on the Bengals’ sidelines. Under the guidance of Coach Kierra Gardner, who sees her team as family, the Bengals are stepping into the new year with purpose and pride.
“My expectations for this upcoming season are for my team to work hard, be dedicated to the sport, and have fun,” Gardner shared. “My goal for this season is to push them beyond their level of comfort and try new things, and that can be with stunting, tumbling, and learning new skills.”
When it comes to their style, the Bengals are all about flexibility and flair. According to Gardner, “our style of cheer, I will say, is a little bit of versatility.”
For Coach Gardner, cheering is about more than just routines. “Cheering is my passion. The best part of coaching is the bonding I do with each individual. I look at them like they are my kids and love them all the same.”
Those kinds of relationships are just as important between teammates. That’s why veteran cheerleaders are stepping up to take on mentoring roles this year. One of the team’s leaders, sophomore Chyna Jackson-White, is already embracing the responsibility.
“I hope that I can contribute as a mentor to the freshman and just be a help to all around me,” Jackson-White said. “Especially with teaching, I know that’s a big role, and I want to make sure everyone can succeed.”
Jackson-White also brings compassion and wisdom to her leadership role. “You build trust by not just degrading another individual’s efforts but working with them to see progress in what they are trying to achieve,” she said.
In cheer, it’s the same mindset. “If you see someone’s motions, directions, or them messing up, guide them,” she added. “Nine times out of ten, they aren’t aware of what they are doing. [Guiding them] builds trust because now they know they can come to you.”
Fueled by insightful athletes and a passionate coach, the Bengals cheer team is ready to bring their spirit to the sidelines this season.
