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What was once considered a simple extracurricular activity has transformed into a rigorous and professional sport. Cheerleading now demands exceptional physical and mental strength, flexibility, coordination, and teamwork. At Western Albemarle High School (WAHS), cheerleading is undergoing a significant transformation under the leadership of new Head Coach Abigail Wilson.
Coach Wilson, a 2015 WAHS alumna and Crozet native, brings years of experience to the program. Starting cheerleading at age four and competing at the collegiate level, she is passionate about building a competitive cheer program at WAHS. Wilson studied Health Sciences at PVCC and is a Certified Nursing Assistant. She stepped into her role as head coach in November, following the departure of the previous coach, Brielle Shope.
“My goal is to make WAHS Cheer a prominent program,” said Wilson. “This season has been about rebuilding, focusing on fundamentals like stunting, jumps, tumbling, and more. We’re improving our game-day presence with fresh cheers, stunts, and routines. Our program is growing rapidly, with 13 varsity cheerleaders and a new junior varsity (JV) squad of nine athletes, coached by Morgan Brannock and Princess Guerrero.”
Training, Competitions, and Community Engagement
The varsity cheer team has been practicing daily since August. From an initial pool of 30 students at tryouts, 13 athletes were selected based on their performance in cheer, dance, jumps, and tumbling. The varsity team supported 10 football games and will cheer for 20 basketball games through the season, while the JV squad will handle 18 games.
Additionally, the cheer team participated in the Crozet Christmas parade for the first time in 15 years, showcasing their school spirit to the community. The team’s efforts are supported by sponsorships from 11 local businesses, enabling them to sport brand-new uniforms this year.
Athletes Share Their Experiences
Senior Chloe Coleman, a base on the varsity team, shared how joining cheer was inspired by her friends. “I liked the idea of being on a team,” she said. “The selection process this year was very competitive, and the team has grown significantly in strength and skill under Coach Wilson.”
Sophomore Tessa Valmarana echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the close-knit nature of the team. “We ‘get’ each other,” she said. “The environment is incredibly supportive, and we’ve all become good friends.” Tessa hopes to continue cheering at the collegiate level.
Future Plans and Competitive Cheer
Coach Wilson has ambitious plans for the program, including reintroducing competitive cheer at WAHS within the next two years. Competitive cheer routines, judged by experts, combine stunts, tumbling, dance, and crowd-involved cheers with poms, signs, megaphones, and flags.
“The dedication and growth I’ve seen in this team are incredible,” said Wilson. “We’re becoming a family, pushing each other to excel both in cheer and in life. These athletes give 110% to everything they do, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
To further engage with the community, the team plans to host a youth clinic in early spring. Open to children aged 5-13, the clinic will teach cheers, stunts, and tumbling, fostering a new generation of cheerleaders.
With its renewed focus on excellence and a strong sense of camaraderie, Western Albemarle Cheer is on its way to becoming a competitive force and a pillar of school pride.
