New Berlin West is welcoming a new head cheerleading coach, Taylor Duellman, and she is already bringing plenty of experience and excitement to the program and is looking forward to helping the team grow while building school spirit throughout the community.

The new coach’s connection to cheerleading goes back many years. After graduating from New Berlin West in 2013, she continued cheering in college and later participated in all-star cheer. She has also been involved with the youth cheer program for nearly eight years. When asked to rate her experience in cheerleading, she joked that it is her whole life, saying, “10 out of 10, cheer’s life. That’s all I do.” As she begins her first season leading the Vikings, one of her biggest goals is to make the cheer team more involved around the school. She wants the team to support other athletic programs and help create a positive atmosphere throughout the building. “I want them cheering for everybody, and I want them to be seen more in the school,” she said.

Duellman’s coaching style focuses on balancing hard work with fun. While she wants athletes to enjoy their experience and create lasting memories, she also expects them to take their responsibilities seriously. “The cheerleaders have a job to do,” Duellman explained. “The main priority is getting our job done safely, but also having fun and making memories.”

Duellman believes that one of the most important qualities for a successful cheerleader is a willingness to learn. She said she can teach athletes the skills they need as long as they are coachable and willing to improve. Building strong team chemistry will also be a major focus this season. She plans to organize team bonding activities such as scavenger hunts and games that help teammates get to know each other better. According to Duellman, these activities often help athletes discover common interests and build stronger friendships.

Looking ahead, she hopes to increase the team’s involvement in the community by performing at Milwaukee Milkmen games and working with Popular Creek. She believes community involvement is important because cheerleaders should be positive role models both inside and outside of school.

When Duellman was asked if she had a message for people who want to join, she said one message for students who may be interested in joining the team: “Come to tryouts. It’s always good to just check it out.” Tryouts are June 9th and 10th at 3-5, and the 11th at 5-7. With a new coach, fresh ideas, and plenty of enthusiasm, the future looks bright for New Berlin West cheerleading.