After a year of rebuilding, the Kinkaid competition cheer team is opening its doors in a new way.
Last season marked the return of the competition cheer program after many years away from the mat. The team’s comeback brought renewed energy to the sidelines and the competition floor, re-establishing a program focused on athleticism, school spirit and teamwork.
Now, as the program prepares for its next chapter, it is making a significant change: instead of selecting members by invitation, the team will hold open tryouts.
Sophomore and returning team member Madeline Lobb, who was part of last year’s comeback season, said the change reflects the team’s growth.
“Last year, we were focused on bringing the program back and even came out winning first place, but now we’re focused on expanding and building it even more,” Lobb said. “Opening tryouts makes it more inclusive and gives more people the opportunity to compete.”
The decision signals a shift toward greater accessibility and transparency.
In previous years, athletes were chosen through a more informal selection process. This season, however, all students interested in competitive cheer will have the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and earn a spot.
Sophomore Madeline Peters, another returning member, said the team’s first season back created strong momentum.
“Competing last year was such an exciting experience for all of us,” Peters said. “Opening tryouts means more people can be part of that energy and help make the team even stronger.”
The competition team differs from sideline cheer in its focus on performance-based routines that combine tumbling, stunting, jumps and dance. Athletes dedicate hours to conditioning and choreography as they prepare for the UCA regional competition.
Senior Lucy Dannenbaum said the team’s success last season showed what the program is capable of achieving.
“Winning at regionals proved that our program can be really competitive,” Dannenbaum said. “I’m excited to see what new athletes will bring to the team this year.”
