Kodiak Cheer Team Elevates Routines with New Stunt Additions

Ella Henscheid (9) is thrown into the air by the Kodiaks’ new stuntmen: Cody Salmon (12), Connor Schoenwald (12), and Marquise Rainey (11). The addition of these stuntmen has allowed the team to perform more advanced tosses and lifts, elevating the overall complexity of their routines. Photo credit: Mylee Hobbs (12)

The Cascade cheer team spent the summer preparing for the school year by attending a camp led by an NCA cheerleader to learn stunts and cheers. Bases for the camp included Samantha Crossley (11), Emma Radach (12), and Ava Week (9). They learned not only the basics but also how to perform stunts in more creative ways. This foundational training helped the team develop the skills and teamwork necessary for the upcoming seasons.

One notable development this year is that both the fall and winter squads performed stunts. Stunting involves lifting, tossing, and catching teammates in coordinated routines, requiring an additional level of athleticism, strength, and trust beyond traditional cheerleading.

During the fall season, the cheer team continued to build on the skills they learned over the summer. In the fall, all stunts were performed by the cheer team members themselves. The fall routines focused on precision, teamwork, and keeping the crowd engaged.

This winter season, the team brought on three new additions: Cody Salmon (12), Connor Schoenwald (12), and Marquise Rainey (11). These new stuntmen bring strength, athleticism, and coordination from their experience as football players during the fall. Their addition allowed the team to attempt more advanced tosses and lifts. Students, including members of the stunt team, practice daily from 5:30 to 7:00 a.m., except on game days, and work to incorporate at least seven new stunts into their routines. Samantha Crossley (11) shared, “My favorite stunt is the basket toss because we get to see how high Ella Henscheid (9) can get thrown.”

All stunts during the winter season, including these new advanced stunts, were performed by the entire cheer team, combining the skills of returning members and the new stuntmen to elevate the routines.

“My favorite part about stunting is spending time with my best friend and laughing hard together,” said Marquise Rainey (11).

The stunt team also enjoyed the camaraderie that comes with working closely together. Marquise Rainey (11) said, “My favorite part about stunting is spending time with my best friend and laughing hard together.” Trust remained a key element, especially with the addition of new members. Ella Henscheid (9) added, “I was nervous at first because the boys have different strengths and they can throw me higher.”

Adding male cheerleaders and expanding stunting routines allowed the team to showcase even more complex skills and creativity. Learning and performing these stunts prepares the team for future success and sets a strong foundation for upcoming cheerleaders.