Cheerleaders say goodbye to retiring cheer coaches
The cheerleaders held their banquet Sunday, Feb. 16, at Paesanos Italian restaurant. Cheerleaders received awards, said their goodbyes and gave their thanks to coaches who are retiring this year.
“The banquet was a good way to say goodbye and finish up cheering in high school,” Cheer captain Kylie Nodorft said.
Varsity coach Mrs. Amanda Lannan has been a cheer coach for seven years. JV coach Mrs. Rebecca Wimpee has also coached for seven years.
“I will miss the relationships I have built over the past seven years here at Wylie East,” JV cheer sponsor Mrs. Wimpee said.
The coaches gave out awards to recognize participation and talent. The biggest award is the coveted cheerleader of the year.
“When I heard my name called for cheerleader of the year, a smile grew ear to ear and stayed there for a pretty long time,” junior Kati Klakamp said.
Every cheerleader received an award for something and the coaches received flowers, cards and other special gifts as a thanks for all the work they did to make the team what it is.
“I know I wouldn’t be who I am without Wimpee or Lannan always pushing me to do better,” senior Tati Pleasant said.
These coaches have impacted the lives of their cheerleaders and will be greatly missed by all.
“Best of luck to the graduating seniors,” Lannan said. “I hope you find happiness and excitement everywhere you go. Don’t forget that we are always your home.”
Lannan had words for the juniors as well.
“To the juniors and underclassmen, cheer is what you make of it. Just like everything in life, the more you put in the more you get out. So give it all you have. I love you all.”
Awards received by varsity cheerleaders:
Cheerleader of the Year- Kati Klakamp
Most Improved- Zach Wilson
Most Spirited- Kassi Klakamp
A+ Grades- Abby Spence
Best Base- Cheyenne Archilla
Best Back Spot- Kiley Hughes
Fantastic Flyer- Shelby Strasemier
Top Tumbler- Kylie Nodorft
Best jumps- Tati Pleasant
Cutie Pa-tootee- Allie Huerta
Sunny Side Up- Ivy LaPorte
Fearless Cheerleader- Hannah Burns
Overcomer- Kyleigh Anderson
Amazing Attitude- Taylor Veracruz
Footloose and Fancy Free- Kati Moss
Rookie of the Year- Jamey Portinga
