Cheerleading at Park University is not just about athleticism; it’s about school pride, unity and personal growth. For Park cheerleaders, the journey involves representing their school and community with energy, enthusiasm and spirit. When they put on their uniforms and step onto the floor, they are not just athletes, but ambassadors of Pirate Nation, embodying the pride and values of the students, faculty, alumni and staff that make up the university. Being a cheerleader at Park is about more than just cheerleading; it’s about making connections, creating memories, and lifting the community’s spirits both on and off the mat.

Balancing academics and athletics

Being a student-athlete is not easy, and the life of a cheerleader is the same. Park cheerleaders try to balance the demands of their academic responsibilities with the physical and mental demands of their sport. Each day, they begin by attending their classes, focusing on their studies before heading into practices or other athletic duties. For them, academics always come first. Cheerleader Caitlyn Beswick said, “Being a student-athlete is actually hard, but I’m a student before I’m an athlete.” This mindset reflects the dedication and discipline required to succeed in the classroom and on the mat. While balancing academics and athletics is challenging, the cheerleaders understand the importance of being well-rounded individuals, excelling in both their studies and their roles as ambassadors for the university.

Inside the practice

Park cheerleaders understand that practice is not just about perfecting routines, it’s also about teamwork and building trust. Each practice is a mix of choreography, conditioning and stunts, but the fundamental focus is always on collaboration. Cheerleader Kennedy McClaine said, “When my teammates throw me into the air, I’m confident that they are going to catch me.” This sense of trust is critical to the sport to ensure everyone executes stunts effectively and, most importantly, safely. Cheerleaders rely on one another, not just during the stunts, but throughout their routines. They build a bond through repeated practice, overcoming challenges and striving for excellence together.

Trust is central to their relationships both on and off the floor. Coach Madalyn Coffman highlights the depth of the bonds they form. “I know everyone has each other’s backs, on and off the floor,” she said. It’s this sense of unity and mutual respect that defines the cheerleading experience at Park University. The hours spent practicing stunts, learning choreography and conditioning create more than just athletic skill; they create lasting friendships and an environment of support and friendship.

Game days

Game days are the final of weeks of practice and preparation. On these days, the energy is high at the Breckon Sports Center, where the cheerleaders play an important role in creating an atmosphere of excitement. Cheerleader Parmida Sadeghi-Ray said, “Getting the crowd hyped is always the funnest [sic] thing to do. I just love the attention!” The cheerleaders lead the crowd in cheers, chants and routines designed to energize the spectators and motivate the athletes. Their goal is to keep the atmosphere alive, regardless of the game’s outcome. Whether the team wins or loses, the cheerleaders are always there, with optimism and ready to keep the energy going.

Through their chants, cheers and stunts, the cheerleaders help create an environment where the crowd feels connected to the team. They keep the adrenaline flowing and ensure that the audience remains engaged in the action, contributing to the collective spirit of the game. For the cheerleaders, their role is not just about supporting the team, it’s about engaging the crowd and uniting everyone to cheer for Pirate Nation.

Off the mat

While cheerleading at Park University is about game-day performances and practice routines, it’s also about service to the community. Park cheerleaders are active participants in campus events, fundraising initiatives and local community outreach efforts. Their involvement goes beyond the mat, as they take part in many causes that help support the university and the greater Kansas City area. Whether they are volunteering at campus events or helping to organize fundraisers, the cheerleaders are always seeking ways to give back and strengthen the bonds between the university and the surrounding community.

The spirit of service is as important as the spirit of competition. Cheerleading at Park University is about more than just performing — it’s about becoming role models and leaders who help shape the campus culture. By engaging in community events, the cheerleaders demonstrate that their commitment extends beyond school pride. They actively contribute to the well-being of their fellow students, faculty and the local community. Their presence at campus events, participation in service projects and leadership in fundraising efforts are all part of what makes being a Park cheerleader special.

Personal growth

Cheerleading at Park University offers more than just physical training; it shows personal growth. Through their training, cheerleaders develop resilience and discipline. Perfecting routines and stunts takes time, and sometimes they need to run through a routine one more time or practice a stunt until it’s right. These challenges build character and teach cheerleaders the importance of perseverance, preparation and hard work.

The experience also brings out leadership qualities in cheerleaders. They are often the first faces new students see when they visit the campus, and as such, they carry the responsibility of being the face of the school. This leadership role is more than just the performance floor. Cheerleaders set an example for their peers, encouraging others to embody the same spirit of teamwork, dedication and community involvement. They become natural leaders, guiding others with their enthusiasm and commitment.

Injuries and setbacks

Like any sport, cheerleading comes with its share of challenges. Injuries are a common occurrence and setback, given the physical nature of the sport. The stunts, flips and tumbles all require strength, precision and coordination, and while safety precautions are always a priority, accidents can still happen. Despite the risk of injury, cheerleaders at Park University remain committed to their sport, understanding that setbacks are part of the process.

In addition to physical injuries, the intense schedules and the pressure to perform can sometimes be overwhelming. There are always more routines to perfect, more stunts to master and more performances to deliver. However, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. The friendships formed through shared experiences are lasting, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from nailing a difficult routine or hearing the crowd erupt with excitement is unforgettable. These moments make the effort and sacrifices worthwhile.

More than just cheerleaders

Ultimately, being a Park University cheerleader is about much more than performing stunts or entertaining a crowd. It’s about representing something bigger than yourself, your school, your community and your peers. Cheerleaders are the embodiment of Pirate Nation, carrying the school spirit wherever they go. Whether they’re leading cheers at a game, participating in a campus event or volunteering in the community, they are always representing Park University with pride.

Being a cheerleader at Park University teaches valuable life skills, such as resilience, discipline, leadership and teamwork. It’s an experience that shapes not only the individual but the entire community. Through their athleticism, service and school spirit, cheerleaders at Park University play a crucial role in creating a vibrant and supportive environment that brings Pirate Nation together. They are more than just cheerleaders; they are ambassadors, leaders and community builders. In the end, they prove that being a Park University cheerleader is about much more than cheering; it’s about making a difference and carrying the Pirate spirit in your heart.