With the first volleyball game of the cheer season approaching, the Loyola cheerleaders have been preparing to bring energy, spirit, and support to the sidelines.
From perfecting stunts to polishing new and old routines, the team has spent the last several weeks focused on making sure their performance will set the tone for an exciting season ahead.
Mia Saldivar, a criminology senior from California, has been on the cheer team since her freshman year. She gave insight on how they have been preparing for the upcoming games and their competitive season.
“Our main focus has been working on new skills to become comp ready. Everything we practice we perform at games to help us get extra reps to help us score high at competitions and become more competitive,” Saldivar said.
Preparation hasn’t just been about learning the moves. It’s also about teamwork, motivation, and school spirit.
“First we start off with a prayer that helps us feel at peace, then we do a team run and encourage each other,” Saldivar said.
The cheerleaders have been practicing multiple times a week, working to build chemistry and confidence with each other.
“Then we cheer each other on with new stunting and tumbling skills and give team and individual shoutouts for all our hard work,” Saldivar said.
Along with cheer practice, there is also school, but with time management and study hours before practice Saldivar has it under control.
“The hardest part I think is just memorizing all the materials and nerves about properly executing the materials,” Saldivar said.
As the season opener has just passed on September 24, the cheerleaders are eager to show off the result of their hard work. Whether it’s a high flying stunt, a sharp chant, or simply rallying the crowd’s energy, their goal is the same: to bring Loyola’s spirit to life from the very first whistle.
“I can’t wait to show the Wolfpack our new pyramids and stunts.” Saldivar said.
