TAHLEQUAH TIGERS CHEER 2025-26

The non-stop energy of the Tahlequah Tigers cheerleaders continues to create a powerful sense of school spirit.  This year’s cheer athletically gifted squad has a renewed sense of purpose filled with momentum and depth under leadership of head coach Mandi Stafford, who says her squad is more prepared and more energized than ever. “The THS cheer team is back and better than ever,” Stafford said. With 27 talented athletes making up this year’s roster, the Tigers bring a powerful blend of experience, athletic ability, and spirit to both the mat and the sidelines.

The team laid the groundwork for success months before the school year even began. A demanding summer schedule helped shape the group into a cohesive and competitive unit. “They’ve spent last summer training hard, learning choreography in early June, and preparing to bring energy, spirit and skills to every game and competition,” she added. That early commitment has translated into a confident, well-prepared team ready to perform at a high level.

With such a large and versatile roster, the Tigers expect to make noise throughout the year—whether they’re on the sidelines igniting the crowd or on the competition floor showcasing their precision and difficulty. Coach Stafford believes the foundation has been set for a strong season across the board. “We can’t wait to see them shine this year!” she said.

With a strong performance at regional competition, the Tigers cheer team advanced to OSSAA state competition where they finished in the top ten in Class 5A.  Additionally, Jade Gregory and Dynashia Bailey were named to the Oklahoma Coaches Association All-Region squad.

Leadership is also a major strength of this year’s squad, highlighted by the program’s five senior cheerleaders—Ava, Dynashia, Jade, Kennedy, and Shalyee—who have earned recognition of their coach as well as the respect of the athletic teams, coaches and players. Stafford holds deep admiration for what this year’s seniors bring to the program daily. “Our five senior cheerleaders, Ava, Dynashia, Jade, Kennedy and Shalyee, are the MVPs of our team,” she said. “They lead by example, lead with heart and bring passion and purpose to everything they do. We’re so proud of them and can’t wait to see all they accomplish this year!”

With strong senior leadership, a full roster of dedicated athletes, and a coach who believes in every one of them, the Tahlequah Tigers cheer team remains filled with school spirit and determination to restore the roar.