Sanford Cheerleaders prepare for competitive winter season 

SANFORD – Stadium lights, big smiles, and shiny pompoms sum up the Fall cheering experience in Maine. All football season long, cheerleaders show up on the sidelines to support others in their community. The winter sport season is their time to shine. Sanford High School boasted a 26-member squad for fall, where they focused on skill-building and cheering for football players and increasing school spirit. 

This week, they take their turn stepping to the center mat, as their competitive season begins with 20 trying out to make the best out of the competitive side of the sport.  

Their goal? To create a routine that will compete at SMAA and Regional competitions to qualify for states. Winter cheerleading is scored as a team on their synchronicity, jumps, tumbling, stunting, energy and overall performance quality. 

Who makes mat in the winter? 

Of the 20 participants trying out, 4 didn’t participate in the fall, highlighting the different ideologies between programs. No one was turned away in the first season, but this one? 

“The biggest deciding factor is the number of tumblers I have on the mat. I need at least majority (over 50%) of the team to tumble (backhandspring or more) to be competitive in class A. After that, I look at the number of stunt groups that can execute advanced/elite stunt skills SAFELY,” said coach Wade, who comes from experience with multiple state championships under her belt as a former cheerleader at Biddeford High, as well as other outstanding achievements in the sport. 

Transitioning between seasons

When discussing the difference between the very different seasons, Ari Martel, junior cheerleader, said, “People understand the severity and the concept of locking in and really doing your best during the winter season.” 

“I like winter because it’s more competitive and hands-on, and we’re working harder, and way more involved with our teammates because you’re competing with them,” Sophia Randall, a Sophomore, said when asked about her favorite. 

“All above that, cheer is a very competitive but friendship-oriented sport,” Martel said. 

Interested in catching a competition this season?

Sanford is fortunate to be hosting the Regional competition on Jan 31, 2026.

FALL SEASON AWARDS: 

Looking back at the Fall season, cheerleaders earned accolades at the Awards Ceremony at SHS. 

• Most improved – London Walker 
• MVP – Bella Tounge 
• Most spirited- Ariana Martel 
• Coach’s Award- Jenna Smith