By Matt Browning
There were several reasons why Campus’ Payton McNutt decided to become a cheerleader seven years ago.
“I started cheer to stay active in school and to separate my competition dance,” McNutt said. “It allowed me to enjoy both spaces and not burn out.”
Being a cheerleader at Campus is a grind, as it spans eight months.
“We practice Tuesday and Thursday Morning from 6-7:15,” McNutt said. “During football season, we have games every Friday being on varsity we go to all game home and away. During basketball season we have games on Tuesday and Fridays, and we go to both home and away games.”
Not only does McNutt practice with her squad, but she also spends her own time honing her craft.
“I do private lessons to enhance my tumbling and stunting skills,” McNutt said. “Being able to fly and base is important. I want to be able to help in any situation my team needs me to. I danced for the majority of my life helping my flexibility, endurance and jumps. I lift weight multiple times a week for strength allowing me to be confident basing.”
McNutt said cheerleaders are a vital component to any sporting event. They are responsible for enhancing the gameday environment.
“It helps the team know we support them we are proud of them win or lose we see them and the work they put it,” McNutt said. “It’s important to have a solid cheering squad to get the spectators engaged which in returns pushes the team.”
