The La Porte High School Cheerleading Squad is a treasured tradition for the high school. For decades now, the team has been wearing their orange and black each week while promoting positivity, teamwork, and above all spirit. During the football games-through pouring rain, blistering heat, and even sometimes snow- the team stands at the sidelines pumping up the crowd. During basketball games the girls stand in a tight line cheering the Slicers on to victory.
While the girls’ dedication to school spirit and organizations is important-what many people fail to notice is the team’s talent at cheer competitions throughout the region. The 2013-2014 Slicer Cheer Squad aims not only to be known for their relentless support of the school, but also their own personal talents.
“I am very excited about the high skill level we have this year. We have so much incredible talent this year. I am hoping to maybe even go to State,” explained Varsity Coach of twelve years Chris Lidgard.
The team has always had a dedication to service and works hard to better the community and boost morale at the school. But they are more than just smiling faces, and this years large team which has ten seniors could prove to be one of the best.
“We have five stunt groups so we will be able to do a lot more and be a lot more creative with routines. This is a very competitive team with all around talent,” Lidgard closed.
Many teams often boast that their strength is their strong bond, but when it comes to LPHS cheer that is an undeniable fact evident to anyone. The team spends a vast amount of time together traveling on buses, practicing often, staying at long competition days, living together for a full week at cheer camp, and team bonding before each game. The closeness and trust is quite necessary when it comes to throwing each other in the air.
“My favorite part about coaching is my relationship with the girls. I have three sons and no daughters, so the girls are my extended family and the daughters that I did not have,” Lidgard explained.
The LPHS Cheer Squad heads off to Ball State University this week for their annual cheer camp. When they return, they will begin honing their competition skills for fall and supporting the LPHS football team.
Click here to meet the 2013-2014 LPHS Cheer Squad seniors!
