Fall is officially upon us, which means the women’s and men’s basketball teams are preparing for the upcoming season. However, fans will see one more team on the basketball court this year. As of 2024, with the help of athletic director Gerald Cadogan, Shawnee State has registered cheerleading as an official sport and is now successfully operating under NAIA guidelines.
With countless hours of practice, hard work and determination from both the squad and coaches, the Shawnee State cheerleading team has transitioned from a club sport to an official athletic team. Head coach Michelle Boldman shared insights into the team’s preparations for this significant transition and what they have planned for the season and beyond. Boldman brings plenty of knowledge and background in cheerleading to her new position.
“I coached varsity cheerleading at the high school level for seven years,” she said. “I have more than four years combined experience working with squads from all over the U.S. for team consultations for competitive routines.”
Earning this title was a smooth transition for Boldman, especially with the warm welcome from the squad. “Honestly, the transition into the coaching position happened very naturally,” she said. “The team welcomed me with open arms. We just clicked, and it’s been such an amazing experience.”
Dedication and hard work were significant components of the squad’s transition, but it also comes with requirements beyond cheering skills.
“With a club sport, the requirements are a bit more flexible, and the demands are a bit relaxed,” she said. “When it comes to a college sport, that changes the game, literally.”
The members are now expected to maintain a certain number of credit hours, achieve at least a 3.0 GPA and attend every practice, event and game scheduled.
“The transition itself just happened, and I think that is because the ladies on the team are so dedicated and driven that they were ready to go from day one,” she said.
With collegiate-level cheer teams, there are countless skills and stunts required to compete at this level. Many of the girls are breaking down and learning skills they haven’t conquered previously or perfecting more familiar ones. Determination plays a key role in every practice.
“There are big expectations and goals, but the one thing I can say is that through it all, these ladies have not backed down,” she said. “… Learn to be accountable, consistent and coachable. Attitude will take you places skill never could.”
As for the upcoming season and years ahead, Boldman has many tasks on her agenda.
“I plan to enhance and improve the overall quality and competitiveness of the cheer program, making it comparable to its counterparts within the university and conference,” she said.
Boldman also emphasized the desire to bring male cheerleaders onto the squad.
“Our program is just kicking off, and you’ll see a lot coming from us in the next year as we set the pace for SSU Cheer,” she said.
Be on the lookout for the newly announced athletic team at upcoming basketball games, campus events and more. To stay updated with the squad, follow their social media accounts on TikTok @ssu.cheerleaders and Instagram @ssucheerleaders. If you are interested in joining the squad for the spring season or would like more information about the program, contact Michelle Boldman via email at [email protected].
