On May 15th, 2024, MIA marked a brand new chapter for their cheerleading program. As tryouts began, new members started to flow in and the energy presented a notably fresh, exciting atmosphere for many. With Coach Sonja Gutwerk and Coach Joy Zaben leading the way again, the bar is set higher than any year before.
Coach Sonja Gutwerk has officially taken over the Fall team, along with the returning assistant coach Joy Zaben, and are hoping to mark a new chapter for the program. Gutwerk and Zaben implemented new fundraising goals and new ways for the girls to practice and to promote the team in their community.
Coach Gutwerk reflected on the changes she hopes to make this season, “As I step into this new chapter of coaching, fueled by 27 years experience, I’m ready to ignite a wave of enthusiasm throughout the team.”
Mentioning the new and improved ideas for this upcoming season, Gutwerk stated, “School spirit and crowd engagement are at the forefront of the goals for this year. With a fresh vision, I hope to elevate our cheer program.”
“The fans will see us perform at every halftime, we will utilize stunts and crowd engaging chants on the sidelines” After a lack of involvement in past years, Gutwerk has announced to team that she wants her girls to be leaders in the community and attentive on the sidelines when our MIA Football team is in play.
Along with the changes for the overall program, the girls are excited about the outcome of it all. Upcoming senior cheerleader, Mary Montgomery, a three year veteran said, “The atmosphere has drastically shifted. In comparison to last year, we are learning crucial skills early, and we are truly being tested.” Whilst this change is fresh, Montgomery compared the difference between her winter sport, soccer, and cheerleading.
“The difference between soccer and cheer is that cheer now has cuts. In cheer, you have to be on task so your athlete in the air does not get hurt…the sport has helped me realize when I need to stay on task and when it is time to have some fun.”
Another rising senior, Layla Platt, three year veteran said, “Flying is my favorite thing, but with new girls coming in, I have to relearn how to trust new stunt groups and new people. I can’t wait to watch my stunt group become my family!” Platt, originally from Sussex, England, enjoys the American cheer experience. Platt hopes to see a change in every direction this year, because she wants to develop more in her skills. “I am very excited that Coach Gutty and Coach Joy are back, I like the way that they push us to be better. We could never do this without them.” With the new season, the level of focus and opportunity is on the rise and the girls are ready for it.
With 13 seniors being on the Fall team next year, there is going to be a lot of leadership, and the season will ultimately come to a bittersweet end. Upcoming junior and three year veteran of the team, Esha Blanc, reflected on her feelings towards the past aspects of leadership towards the end of the season, “Watching these girls improve was the highlight of my time spent on the team so far. I am excited to use what they taught me in this upcoming season and my senior season to try and make the MIA cheer team even better for future years.”
Focusing on the new season, implementing new ideas will help the team to grow and develop for many future years to come. With Coach Gutwerk and Coach Zaben guiding these energetic young girls, there’s hope in improving the entirety of the program. Go Rays!
