The Billings Central football team secured a much-anticipated victory against the Glendive Red Devils; after many long hours of practice through the summer, their hard work paid off with a final score of 45-13. This victory also served to pump up the players for their next game. However, the sidelines held another team: the Billings Central Cheerleaders.
This year, the cheer team not only has new uniforms but also welcomes new coaches: Mrs. Susie Cranston, Tiff Nyberg, and Tiff’s daughter, Central graduate Destiny Nyberg. The three women all have a background with Central cheerleading. Mrs. Cranston’s daughter went to Central and was a member of the Billings Central Cheer team. Mrs. Nyberg had a similar experience because her daughter, Destiny, was also a member of the cheer team. Destiny has a background in both dance and cheer.
Many of the cheerleaders are excited for a fresh start and new eyes that will help lead and inspire the team. Madi Gibson, a senior and member of the cheer squad, stated, “I am most excited for state volleyball and state basketball. I always love watching our girls and boys play their absolute best and how we go up in tournament ranks. I just love supporting my school and how everyone can come together and show the strong faith and spirit we have in each other. I’m also really excited to see how the [cheer] team grows; I can’t wait to see how much the team grows with the new coaches.”
Following cheer tryouts in May of 2024, the team has practiced weekly and worked with the AMP program to help build strength and durability. New ideas, such as strength training, have never been introduced to the cheer team until now. The results have impacted the team significantly. Along with workouts, the coaches have focused on the team’s physical and mental health. Zelaya Palmer, a senior and member of the cheer squad, stated, “My favorite part of the cheer team is having coaches that are willing to listen to our opinions and also hear us out, and they let us have a say in music and uniforms we want to wear, what cheers we like, and what dances we like.”
The cheer squad of Central is on track to reach new levels of stability, strength, and agility. With new coaches and new ideas, the team is sure to excel in the coming season. With this in mind, more girls and even boys are considering joining in the winter season. The new coaches have successfully improved the program and presented healthier, more efficient athletes by focusing on the players.
