Every fall, the student section gathers to watch the Kinkaid cheerleaders tumble, chant and dance at halftime. The spirit and energy the cheerleaders bring brightens every football game, and their positivity is infectious. Too many girls may have caught the cheer bug this year, however, and the cheer program may need to make cuts.

On average, the cheer program rosters 55 girls, 30 on varsity and 25 on JV. However, for 2026, 62 girls expressed interest in trying out. Because of the high level of interest, the coaches have been finding ways to pivot to fit the needs of the program.

 “Our top priorities are safety and meaningful competition,” said head cheer coach JoAnna Nicolaou. “We want appropriate challenges for them as they move forward.” 

While circumstances may still be subject to change, cuts may also be a possibility this season.

The major change that has been anticipated for the cheer program affects freshmen, in particular.  This upcoming season, freshmen, while still being eligible for JV, will also be considered for varsity. 

“I definitely think that this change will benefit the team as a whole,” said sophomore Molly Cornell, a member of the JV cheer team, “as it will give equal opportunities to everyone despite their grade level.” 

One of the main reasons for this is to ensure the cheer program is aligned with all other varsity sports. Every other athletic program has allowed freshmen to try out for varsity, and cheer is ensuring that they are in that same position as well.

This change may add an extra layer of pressure to the girls during tryouts, but they may strengthen the program as a whole. 

JV, varsity, and the competition team will be equipped with the strongest, most capable cheerleaders that Kinkaid has to offer, as the program aims to create another successful season.