“Our freshmen are going to be in great shape. Not only are our seniors amazing athletes, but they are also incredible people.” says Katie Jennings, Maize High Cheer coach.
The Maize High Cheer team spent last season with one senior, this year that number has crawled to a staggering 11. This change in leadership and structure for the team has both the athletes and coaches excited for what’s to come.
New head coach Jennings, who worked as the Maize middle school cheer coach for years, talks about the prioritization of leadership and team positivity for the upcoming season.
“My goals for the 2026–2027 season are to bring more school spirit throughout the building and encourage greater student support at all MHS events,” Jennings says, “We want our cheerleaders to be leaders in creating energy and pride across our school.”
Not only is this year different due to new coaching, but 11 seniors are planning on cheering this year. The girls express excitement for their senior year and hope that new incoming freshmen will have a plethora of older athletes to look up to, and feel guided by.
One senior, Malea Zwetow, who has been on varsity since her freshman year, explains how the large number of seniors and the bonds that many of them have will create a fun environment for her and her teammates.
“I think it [the large number of seniors] just brings a lot more experience, and most of the seniors have been on the cheer team for the past four years so I think it will be a more fun atmosphere,” Zwetow says, “I love cheer because of all the friends I have made from it and all the connections we have.”
Jennings and Zwetow, along with many of the other upperclassmen got the chance to reunite after cheering under Jennings coaching throughout middle school.
“I’m especially excited to see this senior class lead the group. I had the opportunity to coach many of them during their 8th grade year at MMS,” Jennings says, “and they are an amazing group of athletes who work hard, encourage others, and truly look out for the younger team members.”
The start of every season brings upon natural anxiety, especially as an incoming freshman. Sophomore Mia Bogdanovecz, one of two freshmen to make the varsity team for the 2025-2026 season, shares her experience from her first year.
She explains that it is an adjustment for incoming freshmen due to the fast-paced style and overall business but the experience is worth it.
“My freshman season was definitely good and I didn’t think that I could be doing it [cheering on varsity] this year, and so that was fun,” Bogdanovecz says, “I would say that it was very busy with all the games, especially basketball games, that was crazy, but I would say that it was very fun.”
This is a season of excitement for Maize High Cheer, and Jennings is committed to creating a supportive, and enjoyable experience for all of the athletes.
“I want them to be able to walk into practice or a game, leave their worries at the door, and truly enjoy the sport of cheerleading,” Jennings says, “I strive to make practice a positive space where they can work hard, laugh with their teammates, and have fun while continuing to grow. At the end of the day, my athletes are always my top priority.”
