The Fair Grove High School Cheerleading team has officially kicked off its 2025 season. The team of 16 athletes have been cheering at football games and preparing for their first major competition of the season, scheduled for October 4th.
At every football game, home or away, this team can be seen energizing the crowd with chants, stunts, and halftime performances. While they cheer throughout the football and basketball seasons for our teams, the cheerleading team also competes in competitions.
For many athletes, the friendships formed through cheer are just as important as the performances.
“I didn’t know any of these girls before I made the team, and now I have a lifelong bond and my best friends came from getting to know each other at practice and games,” shared sophomore Zoe Baxter.
This cheerleading team is not just focused on cheering at football games, but also competing on the competition floor. Their journey up to their first competition on October 4th is being filled with long hours of training and putting in the work to achieve great success.
Every practice is bringing the team one step closer to their goals. The first hurdle for this team will be regionals, but they hope to continue on to the state competition. Senior captain Lizzy Taylor said, “We got third at state last year, and I believe that if we do what we are capable of doing, then we can definitely win a state title.”
Freshman Olivia Broyles explained, “We have been working very hard on competition material and are very excited for regionals on October 4th.”
Strong leadership is a key aspect for any team. Sophomore Maryah Wisely stated, “Our team leaders for this season are Lizzy Taylor and Eden Lair; they really put in the work and are amazing captains!”
Head Coach Samantha Padgett agreed that this season is about more than just wins, “This year we really want to see that each girl is not only having fun and enjoying this year but also working to grow in their individual and team skills.”
As the cheerleading team continues their journey through the football season and prepares for the competition on October 4th, they also represent school spirit, determination, and the lasting friendships built along the way.
With their hard work, leadership, and energy, the Fair Grove cheerleaders are ready to rise to every challenge this season brings.
