The Wolverine Cheer Squad is ready to fill the crowds football team with excitment this season.

“Although we have two stunt groups, I’m eager to get creative with our pyramids,” Coach Ida Carlshagen said. My main focus this year is to keep advancing our stunting skills.”

Carlshagen is no stranger to Cheer. This will be her third year as head coach and she had been assistant coach for a number of years prior to that.

This year the squad of 11 consists of senior captains Paige Carlton Flierl and Paloma Waldron, seniors Elizabeth Ockerman and Samy Ponce; juniors Brandy Lawson, Chase Lee and Jillian Otis; sophomores Chloe Roach, Liliana Carrillo and Madison Ockerman; and freshman Kimberly Ponce.

This group of enthusiastic women will be focusing on ongoing goals like choreographing routines that engage the crowd, finding new ways to boost school spirit during games, and fostering a strong sense of teamwork.

“Every member of this team is amazing—dedicated and strong team players,” Carlshagen said. “Our captains, Paige and Paloma, have been with us for all 7 seasons, and I look forward to their continued growth as leaders, especially with basketball season on the horizon.”

New cheerleaders, who haven’t participated in FHHS cheer before, are also doing an incredible job, she added, saying “Each brings something unique to the team, and their positivity and eagerness to learn have made this season a lot of fun. I’m excited to see how they progress.”

“The biggest challenge for the season will likely be the weather,” Carlshagen said. “ In previous years, we’ve had to remove exciting stunts or tumbling sequences last minute because performing on wet grass can be risky, especially after the football teams have played. We’re hoping for great weather during our three home games!”

For Carlshagen, her ultimate goal as a coach is to make a meaningful impact on the girls’ lives, regardless of whether they continue cheering after high school. “Cheerleading goes beyond practices, games, and community events—it’s about becoming the best version of yourself and pushing your potential,” she said. “The most rewarding aspect of coaching is watching these athletes grow in confidence, skill, leadership, and character. I’m lucky to play a part in that journey, offering real-world advice, and providing a fun, safe space where lifelong memories are made.”

Contributed photo by Aiden Haines On the field taking a knee on the left side: Chase Lee and Chloe Roach Stunt Group: Elizabeth Ockerman (front spot), Paloma Waldron (main base), Kimberly Ponce (left support), Paige Carlton Flierl (flyer/ top girl), Samantha Ponce (back spot), Jillian Otis (side base), Liliana Carrillo (right support) On the field taking a knee on the right side: Brandy Lawson and Madison Ockerman