By Matt Browning
The tryout process to make the Bennington cheer squad is a rigorous one that has several layers to it.
“Tryouts are conducted in April,” said Bennington cheer coach Patricia Smith. “Each candidate must submit an application, current grades, and recommendations from teachers. They must then complete the live tryout, which includes a cheer, chant, dance, jumps, kicks, and tumbling.”
Once tryouts have been completed then it’s go time for the upcoming season.
“Team members are expected to participate in summer weights and conditioning, an on-campus two-day camp, and Spirit Spreader clinic at Kansas Wesleyan University,” Smith said. “Cheerleaders practice twice a week during the school year at 6:30am, and cheer at all home and away varsity football games. They also cheer for all varsity girls and boys basketball games.”
One of the visions Smith has for her team is the Bennington community rallying around the cheer squad.
“Our cheerleaders do a marvelous job of getting the team and crowd excited,” Smith said. “When our sports teams hear the support of the cheerleaders, school, and the community, it motivates them to play their very best.”
There are three seniors on this year’s squad: Carsyn Rupright, Zeni Smith and Madileya Crook.
“Our seniors are vital to the squad,” Smith said. “I rely on these girls to make decisions for the squad, and to lead by example.”
