Cheerleading is more than just chants and routines—it’s about leadership, dedication, and creating an unbreakable bond among teammates. At the heart of every successful cheerleading squad is a strong captain, who motivates, inspires, and sets the tone for the entire team. For senior captain Tiana Preston, her journey to the top of the cheerleading pyramid has been a blend of hard work, perseverance, and a deep love for the sport.
Preston has been cheering for two years, but this is her first year as a captain, and although she is newer to cheer, she loves the sport.
“I used to dance years ago, but got injured and was told I probably would not be able to go back,” said Preston. “When I saw that Woodland had a cheer team, I wanted to join not only because there are similar aspects to the two sports, but also because I wanted to challenge myself with learning something completely new and different.”
Her background in dance allowed her to excel in the sport and her spot as a captain on Woodland 2024-2025 cheer team. She is a born leader; not only is she cheer captain, but she is also president of Woodland’s DECA club. Preston loves to inspire the underclassmen to become their best selves in cheer and in their personal lives. She believes cheerleading is one of the best ways to be in a positive environment filled with people who are there to support you.
“Being around a group of girls who are so talented and passionate in every aspect of their lives. I feel we have created a healthy and supportive community on the mat, and a lot of the girls just light up my day when I go to practice,” Preston stated.
With competition season underway, having a strong and united team is essential now more than ever. Unfortunately, injuries are prevalent in cheer due to extreme physical demands. Preston has a foot injury and cannot cheer on the mat, but she continues supporting and leading her team from the sidelines. Her resilience, combined with her infectious enthusiasm, has kept her squad going strong.
As Tiana prepares for the next chapter of her life, her focus is on continuing to grow, as an athlete and as a leader. With her final year as captain ahead of her, she’s determined to leave a legacy of camaraderie, dedication, and strength. Her ultimate goal is not just to win competitions but to ensure her teammates feel empowered and supported long after they leave the squad.
Her advice to the underclassman was “Don’t be afraid to take risks or to ask questions. A lot of the time, the best outcomes come from adjustments suggested by the athletes themselves.”
With her leadership and passion, it’s clear that Tiana will continue to inspire others for years to come. Whether on the sidelines, on the competition floor, or in the hearts of her teammates, she’s proven that true leadership isn’t just about being in charge—it’s about lifting everyone up and leading them to greatness. She hopes for the best for her team this year as well as in years to come.
