Eruptions of glee and laughter echo across the gym while the University cheer teams practice. It’s the kind of warmth and comfort shared only by a family, which is exactly what the cheer teams are.
Emma Guarni, senior captain of the all-girl team, said her favorite part of being on the team is the family culture they have.
“Everyone is unique and has their own personalities,” Guarni said. “I love how we can all come together to have the best time. We’re able to work and focus when we need to, but at the same time, we’re really close-knit as a team.”
Though the camaraderie within each team makes for a lighthearted, social environment, the sport demands much of the athletes’ time and dedication. Between practices, conditioning and required athletic events, their schedules are packed.
Head coach Stephanie Record, a former University cheerleader, is behind those performances. She began coaching the teams shortly after she graduated.
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Though Record said her coaching style is that of a mentor and not a friend, she guides them emotionally as well as physically.
“I’m still there for them whenever they need support, especially since many of them are away from their families,” Record said.
When the teams aren’t cheering for goals, they’re setting their own. Record’s main hope for this year is for both the co-ed team and the all-girl team to be confident enough to perform well in front of any size audience.
This can be difficult for the teams because many of them are new to performing in front of large crowds. However, Record has faith because “they’re generally confident and outgoing by nature.”
When performing for an audience of 50,000 people, every team member must do their part to put on a great show.
With such a large team, Record has found it difficult to ensure everyone collaborates well. This year, however, she thinks the cheerleaders are more comfortable with each other.
“They seem to really enjoy each other’s company and working together,” Record said.
Team-bonding activities are partially responsible for these friendships. The teams recently visited Curtis Orchard, where they grew closer to one another.
When they’re not cheering on football players, these athletes are cheering on each other, making it clear how the teams have lasted 125 years.
