Q&A With CPHS Cheerleading Coach Schmitt

Attention cheerleading fans: the 2021 Cheerleading has begun and Coach Schmitt had lots to say about her expectations for this season!

Who are this year’s captains and star returning players?

We don't have captains this year, but the entire team has stepped up because this season is different.

Are there any graduating members you would like to mention?

We are graduating about half our team, they all play an important role within the team.

How does your team plan on adjusting to Covid-19 restrictions?

It has definitely been a challenge. We usually have 2 months to learn and prepare a new routine before competitions begin, this year we were given 2 weeks. Everyone understood, with the decrease in practice time, that 100% had to be given every moment of practice. We also did not have time to prepare to see if a stunt would work, we had to go with what we knew.

What are your expectations for this season?

To be better than the week before, which is exactly what they have been doing.

What are your expectations of your players?

To work together and do what is best for the team.

What makes cheer different from other sports?

Cheer is different from other sports because it involves multiple moving parts at once. It needs to have a high level of difficulty on the score sheet, be performed flawlessly, but also be enjoyable to watch. If one person makes a mistake it can potentially cause a ripple effect. For example, if one side of the pyramid doesn't do what they're supposed to do, then the middle group cannot go. It is important to have someone take the lead and call for plan b in a second.

What do you and the team plan to work on at practices?

Every week we try to increase our difficulty with stunts.

What makes a good leader for your team?

Someone who takes the initiative and motivates the other teammates.

What do you want your players to take away from the season?

They competed during unprecedented times, no one knew what was going to happen. They adapted and pushed themselves even though they didn't know what the next day was going to hold. Given the circumstances of only having 2 weeks of practice, they should be extremely proud of themselves for pulling off this routine.

How can students interested in cheer get started/do you hold tryouts?

Tryouts will be held in the beginning of June. We practice all throughout the summer to prepare for our fall season. If anyone is interested please look out for emails and announcements for a meeting.