NHS Cheer Squad Builds More Than Skills

Coach McKenzie Cinard

For the Nolensville High School cheer squad, this season is about more than perfecting stunts and routines. It’s about building a confident, disciplined and supportive team that represents Nolensville High School with pride.

The squad has grown tremendously in both skill and maturity since last year. Athletes have been challenged to step outside their comfort zones, take ownership of their roles and learn to trust one another.

“The biggest growth I have seen is in their willingness to work through challenges together,” coach Cinard said.

Practices are intentional and include conditioning, flexibility, jumps, tumbling, stunting, cheers and game-day execution. The team has placed an increased emphasis on stunt technique, communication and timing, while teaching athletes why proper technique is important for both safety and performance.

Bringing athletes with different personalities, experience levels and strengths together has been one of the team’s biggest challenges. Learning difficult skills also means accepting mistakes, making adjustments and trying again. Those setbacks, however, have helped the team become stronger and more resilient.

Keeping athletes motivated during long practices and competitions comes down to remembering the bigger picture. Small victories are celebrated, leadership and perseverance are recognized, and practices include plenty of opportunities for fun. Creating a culture where every athlete feels valued also helps the team push through difficult moments.

For the coach, some of the proudest moments haven’t necessarily been the
biggest stunts or loudest performances. They come from watching athletes encourage one another, step up as leaders and refuse to give up when
something doesn’t go as planned.

The squad also plays an important role in creating the energy and atmosphere of game day. Cheerleaders rally the student section, support the football team, engage with the crowd and help create an experience that reflects Nolensville pride.

The message to students interested in joining the squad in the future is simple: come ready to work and willing to learn. Attitude, work ethic, coach-ability and being a good teammate are just as important as athletic ability.

There will be challenging days, but those are often the moments when athletes grow the most. For the Nolensville High School cheer squad, that growth — together — is one of the most important accomplishments of the season.