Coweta High School senior Juliann Cehand embraces the responsibility that comes with being a varsity cheerleader and co-captain for the Lady Tigers. Whether she is helping lead the team from the sidelines, preparing for a stunt or encouraging teammates, Cehand values the close connection the squad shares.

“I love how well we all get along and support each other,” Cehand said.

That support begins at home. Cehand credits her parents for being a steady source of encouragement throughout her cheerleading experience.

“My parents because they are positive minded and supportive,” Cehand said.

As a flyer, Cehand understands the importance of trust, technique and communication during every stunt. Flyers must remain controlled in the air while depending on their bases to provide a strong foundation.

“I’m a flyer and the most difficult part is staying tight for my bases,” Cehand said.

Cehand said each teammate brings a different strength to the Lady Tigers. She pointed to Kinley Apple’s vocal leadership and Elena’s ability to lift the group’s morale.

“Kinley Apple is the most vocal and Elena is always trying to keep everyone’s spirits up,” Cehand said.

For Cehand, leadership is not just about being heard. It is also about helping the team make decisions together and keeping everyone focused on a common goal.

“The whole team needs to work together to make decisions and not just argue about it,” Cehand said.

She also recognizes that growth is never finished in cheerleading, especially in technical areas such as stunting and tumbling.

“Stunting or tumbling but you can always be better,” Cehand said.

Outside of cheer, Cehand attends cosmetology school at Indian Capital Technology Center in Coweta. After graduation, she plans to continue pursuing a career that allows her to help others feel confident.

“After high school I want to become an aesthetic nurse,” Cehand said.