For the Durant Lions cheer program, culture is at the center of everything. Head coach Lou Ann Lively said the foundation of the squad comes from trust and consistency. “I would describe it as culture of commitment,” Lively said. “This is a team that knows at the end of the day, win or lose, it’s the same girls you practice with.”
That sense of loyalty has shaped a group with strong chemistry. “Qualities that set this team apart from past years is community,” Lively said. “These girls have a strong connection and friendship with one another.”
While competition is part of the sport, the Lions focus on deeper measures of success. “I would define it by having respect for one another,” Lively said. “Everyone can cheer but these girls succeed when they care, respect and stay committed throughout the year.”
Leadership is also key to that success. The team looks to its co-captains to set the tone both on and off the sidelines. “Leaders on this team are the co-captains Lauryn and Savannah,” Lively said. “They help make my job easier, keep the team together and help its flow easily.”
That leadership has been vital as new and returning members blended together. “Having an all-year sport is not always easy with all girls, but these girls have come together as friends and a team,” Lively said.
The upperclassmen also provide important direction for the younger members. “These girls play a big role, they set the mood, expectations and more,” Lively said. “They know the value of what they do is seen.”
A typical practice keeps the Lions focused and game ready. “A typical practice for the Durant cheerleaders starts at 2:40 and ends at 4:30,” Lively said. “We practice our cheers, crowd involvement, stunts and cadences.” One tradition always gets special attention. “Learning the fight song to perfection is something the girls practice multiple times a day,” she said. “This is traditional, so the cadence needs to be perfect.”
Beyond practices, the Lions embrace their role as leaders of school spirit. “We are a community service team!” Lively said. “Our goal is to support all teams at DHS, help with school spirit and activities at the elementary school and community.”
Representing Durant is a responsibility they take seriously. “This is something I say is very important,” Lively said. “This not only teaches the girls how their actions play a big [role] but that this is just valuable in the workforce.”
For Lively, the greatest reward comes from seeing the cheerleaders grow through the program. “Watching my cheer girls grow and mature throughout the years,” she said. “They have learned responsibility, respect, and dedication. The biggest lesson I hope they take away is that no matter what others think, to keep cheering yourself on.”
