By Blake Chadwick
Kaytee Smith has spent most of her life on the sidelines and mat, and as a member of the Goddard High School cheer team, her impact reaches far beyond game day.
Smith credits her leadership style to positivity and a genuine care for her teammates.
“My biggest strength is being positive and helpful to my teammates,” Smith said. “I like to be a leader and role model for my cheerleaders, answering whatever questions, giving critiques, and supporting them is important to me as I am leaving and they are moving up.”
That leadership has helped shape a close-knit group at Goddard.
“My team’s biggest strength is being able to work together,” Smith said. “Our squad is one big family.” She added that the team’s flexibility and trust allow anyone to step in when needed, and when one cheerleader is struggling, “the whole team steps in and motivates them to get back up.”
Smith’s love for cheer began early.
“I have been cheering since I was six years old,” Smith said. “I knew it was something I loved since I put on that uniform and tied the bow into my hair.”
Her goals extend beyond herself. Smith hopes to inspire younger students to pursue cheer without fear.
“I want everyone to know that they do not have to be a certain size, more experienced, or popular to become a cheerleader,” she said.
