The Fort Worth Convention Center was host to the 2021-2022 UIL Spirit State Championships. It’s a gameday competition and the overall goal is to lead the crowd effectively no matter the sport you are cheering for.
The Pirates came into the competition the reigning State Champions in District 5A Division 2. This alone was impressive as it was Crandall’s first year in District 5A. They would also be competing to win their fourth championship in the past five years!
At the helm of this impressive cheer squad is Head Coach Nicole Mitchell. Mitchell has been in charge going on fourteen years now at Crandall. I asked the captains of the team what it was like to cheer and learn under Coach Mitchell. Senior captain Kynzii Driggers said, “In my four years of cheering with Coach Mitchell she has always pushed the team to be the best! She keeps us focused on our goals, and teaches us to always give 110%.” Mitchell’s leadership on the mat and in the classroom is a big reason why these cheerleaders are so successful!
The Pirates are led by junior and senior captains Natalie Hamlin, Claire Finley, Addison Sewell, Kynzii Driggers, Brittyn Barber and Brielle Best. I asked the question to all captains about what it takes to help lead the team on the mat. Senior captain Brielle Best said, “It takes every cheerleader having the same goal and wanting to achieve it together. We must be hard working and have mutual respect for each other no matter your job on the team.” This sentiment is echoed throughout the entire team. Sophomore Brinleigh Sustaire said, “Each person’s role on the team is important. Long practices and dedication to the team help make us who we are.”
With this mindset in hand the Pirates took to the mats. After multiple days of competition Crandall came out on top with a total score of 95.30. This score was good enough to give the Crandall Pirates a third straight State Championship! Not only did the Pirates win, they received the highest score out of all nine division winners for a second straight year! CISD Superintendent Dr. Wendy Eldredge shared joy and excitement when speaking about the Pirate Cheerleaders. “I am so proud of our cheerleaders and their performance! They represent our town and school district with the best spirit around.”
It’s evident how this team continues to dominate year in and out. They have a supportive administration, great coaching staff, and young ladies who will work hard to achieve their goals. Coach Mitchell said, “My greatest joy in coaching these young ladies is seeing them work together as a team to meet the goals they set.” I have no doubt the goal for next year will be to win state again!
Congrats to the Crandall Pirates Cheer Team on another amazing season!
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