By Derrick Smith

Athletic teams have to put a lot of work in to be successful. And it is more than just physical work, they also have to have good team chemistry and communication in order to make sure things go smoothly. Dawna Schettler, who is in her fifth year coaching the Lawton High School cheer team, says that her squad tries to work on their team chemistry as much as they can.
“We like to have team bonding every month,” she said. “Some of the bonding activities are zip line, bonfire, scavenger hunts, escape room, volunteer activities, and team meals.”

Schettler coaches alongside Angela Cordes and Kathy Saunders. They agree that their team is all around great athletes and people.
“Our biggest strength is that we are a well-rounded team,” Dawna said. “We have girls that are members of the National Honor Society, play multiple sports, All-Star Cheer Teams, service organizations & praise team. We also are diverse in race, socioeconomic backgrounds and ability levels starting with girls who have never cheered and those who cheer competitively.”
Tori Justice is a senior and a co-captain of the cheer squad. She says that she loves being part of a team that gets along so well.
“I love that we can just talk to each other,” she said. “It is not awkward between anyone. Also, I enjoy helping to spread school spirit.”
The team’s hard work and dedication has paid off. They placed in the top five at the OSSAA Game Day State Championship last year.
Junior Ashtyn Hardin enjoys being on the sideline and seeing the excellent student section that is there to cheer on their school.
“Our student section has great school spirit,” she said. “They help get us hyped and it definitely makes cheering easier with such a great crowd. I also enjoy being a part of this team because we all go to practice ready to work and we are all dedicated to be the best.”