GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- The Union Redhawks cheer squad will bring a mix of unity, energy, and style to the sidelines this fall. Led by Coach Ashley Pinder, the team is embracing its majorette-inspired style and looking to elevate their performances on the field.
With a team culture that’s positive and expressive, the Redhawks bring a unique rhythm to every routine. “We have a majorette style. We incorporate lots of dance and try to keep things upbeat,” Pinder shared. “We incorporate mid-stunting into the routines on the sidelines too.”
An area of growth for the team this year is tumbling. “I’d like to see us do a bit more of that,” Pinder said.
But beyond the skills and routines, it’s the bond between coach and cheerleaders that truly makes this group special.
“I’ve never had girls. I am a mom of two boys, so I love being a mother figure to them,” Pinder said. “Even outside of cheer, they know they can call me for anything. We’re a family, very tight-knit. I love these girls.”
The athletes themselves are just as enthusiastic and ready to take on the season together.
Junior KenNayJa Smith captured the vibe perfectly: “The majority of the girls are really hype and energetic. We try to be positive. Lots of us are friends.”
For her part, senior Dayami Lopez Garcia brings a cool, consistent presence to the team: “I show up to practice, am prepared, and try my best. I’m one of the calm and cool ones on the team.”
This year’s team is anchored by key returners who Coach Pinder describes as role models on and off the sidelines. “Our leaders are very team-oriented and responsible,” Pinder said. “They get good grades and are very supportive of the rest of the girls. They also have an ability to talk to the girls in a respectful manner, so the team listens.”
One of those team leaders, junior Angeli Taylor, agrees that communication is the key to her team’s success. “Communication is key and getting to know each other and how everyone works is important. Before we practice, we need to communicate, and after we do a routine, we need to reflect.”
Taylor also plays a big role in helping new members settle into the squad. “We have people on the team who are younger than me, so I show them what we’re supposed to do,” Taylor shared. “For some girls it might be their first time cheering, so I try to help them get into the routine and know their roles.”
Coach Pinder also wants new cheerleaders to take part in their program: “I would like to see more cheerleaders, more diversity on our team, and good team spirit,” Coach Pinder said when asked about her goals. This year, she thinks all of those goals can be achieved.
With powerful performances and a deep sense of team pride, the Union Redhawks are ready to wow their school community this season—one cheer at a time.
