By Derrick Smith

The Daniel Webster High School cheer team is not the most professionally trained cheer team but you would not know that by watching them cheer on the sidelines. Fourth-year head coach Lori Wixon says that her squad always gives it everything they have.

“Our team’s biggest strength is their heart and pride,” she said. “My kids don’t come from years of cheer experience or tumbling classes. But when we get out there, we leave it all on the sidelines. My kids also mentor middle school students and show them that anything is possible if you are willing to work for it.”

Wixon’s team works hard in and out of cheerleading and they have the proof to show for it. “In 2019 we were District Game Day Champions,” the coach stated. “But our biggest success is in our kids. They keep their grades up and stay out of trouble because they love their team and want to stay on the team. Two years in a row, we have had seniors go on to cheer in college. That was never heard of at Webster, but my kids do not give up on their dreams.”

With Covid and changes at the school, the past couple of years have been different than usual for Wixon’s squad. But even in the midst of changes, they found a way to do what they can. 

“Last year hit us hard,” coach Wixon stated. “We did not get to travel much, but they did love traveling to playoffs with our basketball team. Our squad is known for its team-building activities and we hope to get back to that this year. Last year, they decided to cut the football program at the high school. We are not sure how that will impact our team, but we never turn away a challenge.  We will take this time to build our community service outreach. We have the best community that always helps support us.  We love helping them and giving back.”