Cheerleaders play a big part in the typical high school experience. From hyping the teams wins and losses, to encouraging students and getting them excited about what they're going to watch, cheerleaders are very important. Although they are amazing they can't do it on their own, they have the help of Coach Jenna Hooten, a new member of the coaching staff.
Coach Hooten teaches Dual Credit and on level English with her degree she obtained from Tarleton State University. One important thing to take note of is that coach Hooten is not new to Brewer, she attended as a student and captain of the cheerleading squad. With all this experience she's learned over the years, Hooten has put together a wonderful group of dedicated cheerleaders.
“I cheered all my life and loved it, so I wanted to inspire the next generation,” Hooten said.
Hooten had the opportunity of being cheer captain and got to choreograph pep rallies. Her love for cheerleading continues to grow with her. Hooten strives to see greatness in her cheerleaders. Cheer is something she is very passionate about, so when Hooten heard about the opportunity she was eager to take it.
“I loved the atmosphere (of Brewer) and how I felt so loved and encouraged by teachers and staff,” Hooten said. "Our school spirit was at an all-time high, and our sports teams were all pretty good.”
This will be Hooten's first year coaching cheer and while this job can have its ups and downs, she has done well and it shows in the way the girls perform. Many responsibilities come with coaching such a big group of girls, but Hooten is committed to making sure the girls succeed even when they're not performing.
“Coach Hooten’s coaching style is encouraging but also hardworking which helps me get better,” Leah Rickles, one of Hooten's cheerleaders.
Trust is a necessity when it comes to a coach-athlete relationship. People need someone that they feel comfortable talking to about anything, and for most of the girls that's Hooten. From the start she has established that she is there for them and is determined to watch them succeed in everything they do.
“They know they can come talk to me about anything and have fun, but they also know when it’s time to be serious and get stuff done,” Hooten said. “Over the years I have learned that being a good person and treating others with kindness goes a lot farther than you may think. You never know what someone is going through or how much your kind words or a simple smile could impact them.”