By Blythe Lenon
Cheerleading coaches are the ones who set the tone for the cheer squad and typically end up becoming somewhat of a second parent to many of the cheerleaders on their squad. For Tahlequah High School Head Cheer Coach Mandi Stafford, being a mentor and ‘motherly figure’ to her squad is second nature. “This is my 10th year coaching here. I started in middle school, then 9th grade, then high school assistant coach and then head coach” Stafford said.
Her squad is a committed group of athletes and she said they have many strengths! “They show up, are always willing to work and do what is asked of them. Their commitment to cheer is what stands out,” Stafford said. It’s clear to see that the commitment pays off, as Stafford said they have won a plethora of awards and honors. “Since I’ve been coaching, Tahlequah Cheer has been an 8-time state qualifier, 2017 State Runner Up, 2021 3rd Place Finisher, 2022 Academic State Champion, 2-time ICA National Qualifier and Gameday State Qualifier. Since 2020, Tahlequah has had 6 All-Region Cheerleaders and 3 All-State Cheerleaders.”
The squad is a tight knit group as they spend tons of hours together in the gym, but they also like to have fun outside of practice together, too! “Attending UCA Cheer Nationals in Orlando in 2023 and traveling as a team, competing and going to Disney World was such a blast!” Stafford said. Sophomore Cheerleader Lily Taylor has gained some of her closest friends from the extensive time she’s spent with her cheer team. “We have truly created unbreakable bonds and friendships that I will cherish forever. From 6 A.M. practices to sideline routines and competitions, getting to be on the frontlines next to my best friends has given me lifelong memories!” For Freshman Cheerleader Grier Robinson, representing the smaller community of Tahelquah through cheer is an honor. “The community is very involved and supports all sports and athletes at every game! They rally behind us and are always there to cheer on athletes alongside us,” Robinson said.
