Hackett Has Something to CHEER About...
By: Isabella Hentz
Hackett is grateful to introduce Jenna Ruddell to the cheerleading program. Coach Jenna is a highly qualified Cheer Coach with a stellar background and over 25 years of experience. Hackett is fortunate to finally have such a talented, capable and gifted coach for this team. She was a last minute hire but came ready to hit the ground running. When asked what her aspirations are for this season she states, “My goals are to perfect techniques, chants, stunts, jump timings, routine basics, and create a solid foundation.”
Not only does she want to improve the looks of the girls, but she wants to achieve the proper recognition. The plan for next year is to turn Hackett’s cheer into a competitive team, and that starts with the right equipment. From Coach Jenna being a part of the Hackett community for such a short period of time, she has already gotten proper mats ordered, new uniforms in the works, and created next school year's schedule (starting in May of 2025).
However, before looking into the possibility of turning the club-sport into a competitive team, she had to do her research. In high school athletics, Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs or activities by recipients of federal financial assistance. This comes from the Michigan High School Athletic Association, which fully recognizes competitive cheerleading as a sport.
When asked about her initial thoughts on Hackett’s cheer program before her arrival, Coach Jenna expresses, “I was pleasantly surprised to have a larger group of girls try out this week. However, you can tell there has been a lack of attention to detail and opportunities for the team.” Thus, her main goal is to turn this program into a fully functioning competitive team by next fall.
In response to the new leadership in the program, experienced cheerleader Ellie Blondia (sophomore), says “It's being taken more seriously by the team members”.
Additionally, new member Anna Ziolkowski (freshman) says her favorite part about the season so far is “Having the ability to learn different skills and we have learned so much in less than a week”.
With all that is changing the cheer world at Hackett, keep a look out for the girls as they cheer at their first game on Tuesday, January 14th at the girls varsity basketball game!
Cheerleading is a very rewarding activity that will bring you long time memories and friendships along the way. Conditioning and practice may not sound appealing, but games make it worth it, seeing as they are cherished by our cheerleaders. Pumping up the crowds at varsity basketball games is a very fulfilling experience!
If you or anyone you know is interested, check out the Hackett Cheerleading website below!
