Cheerleaders provide motivation from the sidelines. Cadence Sawatzky, a senior cheerleader at Clinton High School is passionate about her sport. “I like being a positive influence on those around me. I also like to help build school spirit and be involved in the school and the community,” she says.

Boosting school spirit may be the most visible role of cheerleaders but they are also competitive athletes. Cadence’s cheer team competes in Game Day competitions where they perform routines showcasing skill in band dance, crowd leading and the fight song. 

Perfecting complex routines requires athleticism and commitment. Cheer season runs from June through March. “We put in countless hours practicing for half time routines, competitions, pep assemblies, football games, basketball games, wrestling matches and the many other things that we do,” said Cadence.

Cheer taught Cadence the importance of being on time. “I’m not the best at being on

time, but for cheer, I have to be,” she says.

Time is precious when competition and football season are at the same time. Making time for school, family and friends can be difficult. Fun memories like dressing up for Halloween practice with her game day team make the hard work worth it.

Cadence looks up to teammate Presley Evans. “She is an all-star cheerleader at Tribe. If I ever have any cheer questions,she will always know the answer. She loves her people so much and I’m glad that I can call her my best friend,” said Cadence.

A role model she is inspired by and thankful to is her older sister Darienne. “I’ve always looked up to her. Her support means so much more to me than she’ll ever know.

“I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to experience cheer. I am so grateful for Him. I want to thank my parents for always being there for me and always believing in me. I don’t know what I would do without them,” she said.

Cadence is in choir, track, NHS, and is the Student Council class treasurer, and Key Club vice president. She attends Edge Church, where she is involved in the worship team and kid’s ministry.