Kiyara Long
MC’s cheer squad has been performing for the school for years, and recently, the team has come under new leadership. Ian Lopez officially became the newest coach of MC’s cheer team early this year.
“I became the new [head] cheerleading coach some time in February. I was super stoked,” Lopez said.
With his new position as the cheer coach, Lopez is looking to change some aspects of the team.
“I think it is important for any coach, whether it is cheerleading or not, [to] focus on assessing team tactics and overall production,” Lopez said “Of course, promoting safety and good sportsmanship on and off the mat.”
Coach Lopez has been in cheerleading for most of his life and coaching for four years.
“I have been cheerleading for quite some time. I started in middle school, then continued to cheer in high school, and had the opportunity to cheer in college,” Lopez said.“After growing an appreciation for the sport, I decided to pick up coaching. This will be my second high school that I have coached [at]. When I noticed the position was open, I decided to take it due to the fact that Mt. Carmel is all about tradition and school spirit.”
So far MC students have seen the cheer team’s performance at the “Home of the Sundevils” pep rally last week, but their next performance will be at the first MC home football game.
“Both squads, junior varsity and varsity, have been working tirelessly over the summer on our home routine, which was performed at summer cheer camp and at our first pep rally,” Lopez said. “We have also been prepping for our home game and halftime show. We cannot wait to see the crowd’s reaction.”
MC students should keep an eye out for what coach Lopez has created with the cheerleaders this coming friday.
