About Us
Program Vision
The Gig Harbor Cheer program vision is to be an integral, well-coordinated part of the school curriculum, to assist participants in the development of athletic and leadership skills, to develop effective time management strategies and to develop socially through cooperation, competition and appropriate stands of behavior. To give all team members an experience they will carry with them for a lifetime and to help them grow not just as “cheerleaders” but also as individuals. We encourage performing and community service to build self-confidence, self-esteem, coordination, personal enjoyment and success! Cheerleaders are representatives of Gig Harbor High School at all times. Therefore, you will be expected to conduct yourself in a manner that would be considered respectful by all.
Purpose/Mission
Promote and uphold the integrity, pride, and spirit of the GHHS cheer program.
Represent GHHS to the highest degree during games, performances, competitions, and events.
Set an example of good behavior at all times (whether in uniform or not).
Promote friendship between members of our cheer squad and with other programs/teams with whom we interact.
Educational Value for Cheerleaders
Membership on the GHHS cheer squad offers a unique opportunity for personal growth, leadership and involvement in diverse activities. The attitude, dedication, and enthusiasm of the team members are just as important as the skills involved. Coaches and members of the GHHS cheer squad are committed to the highest level of athleticism, performance, self-discipline, respect for others, personal exemplary conduct and the performance of all responsibilities related to the pursuit of spirit and pride.
Goals
Cheer and support all athletic events.
Participate in and support school spirit and Homecoming weeks.
Support and perform at pep and recognition assemblies.
Provide help to the school when needed.
Perform community service under the umbrella of cheerleaders.
Cheer Program Code of Ethics
Ensure equal opportunity to all students without regard to gender, race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry or economic capability.
Emphasize the ideals of sportsmanship, ethical conduct, integrity, accountability, and fair play.
Abide by all school, district and league rules.
Show courtesy to all visiting teams, competitors, hosts and officials.
Respect the integrity and judgment of all sports and competition officials.
State Standings
2024 | 3A Small Game Day - 2nd Place
2023 | 3A Small Game Day - 1st Place
2022 | 1A/2A/3A Small Game Day - 3rd Place
2021 | Small Game Day - Non-Tumbling, Non-Build - 3rd Place
2020 | 1A/2A/3A Small Game Day - 2nd Place
2019 | 2A/3A Game Day Super Large - 4th Place
2018 | 2A/3A Medium - 5th Place
2015 | 3A/4A Large - 3rd Place
2009 | Medium - 7th Place
2008 | Super Large - 2nd Place
Community Involvement
Here are some of the special events/activities we participate in :
Cheer with the GHHS Band in the annual Maritime Parade
Assist GHPD with National Night Out
Support at the annual Race for a Soldier marathon
Write letters to Veterans to honor 11/11
Hosted a charity Mini Cheer Clinic to support Mary Bridge's Children's Therapy Unit (a senior project)
Donated Blankets to Tacoma General Hospital
Helped at PenMet Parks Festivals
Helped host games at Harbor Hounds
Welcomed back all staff for the PSD August pep rally
Nationals Standings
2024 | USA Nationals - Anaheim, CA
In the news:
Gig Harbor Now - Sports Beat: Gig Harbor cheer wins state title
Tacoma News Tribune - This local cheer team just won a state championship. Now they’re planning for nationals.
Gig Harbor Now - Sports Beat | Gig Harbor cheer squad second in state
Meet the Coaches
Safety and Educational Certifications:
First Aid CPR Certified
AACCA (American Asoc. of Cheerleading Coaches & Advisors) Certified
WIAA/WSCCA Stunt Level 1 and 2 Certified
NCSSE (National Council for Spirit Safety and Education)
Program Management & Cheer Fundamentals
Cheer & Dance Coaching Principles & Ethics
Coaching Stunts & Tumbling 1 & 2
Type II Driver Training
Coaching Experience:
Gig Harbor High School: 2012 – Present
Head Cheerleading Coach
Central Kitsap High School: 2011 – 2012
Co-Head Cheerleading Coach
Peninsula High School: 2007 – 2011
Assistant Cheer Coach
WSCCA Assistant Cheer Coach of the Year 2011
Washington State Cheerleading Coaches Association (WSCCA) - Board Member
General Board Member
Prior West Side Director
Executive Board Member, Webmaster/Marketing Director (Thru 2015)
Past WSCCA Cheer Liaison for WIAA State Basketball
*WSCCA Hall of Fame - Contributor 2023
*WSCCA Member of the Year 2012
*Program of the Year, Nominee 2016
Laura Nation, Head Coach
Assistant & Volunteer Coaches
Safety and Educational Certifications:
First Aid CPR Certified
WIAA/WSCCA Stunt Level 1 and 2 Certified
Prior Experience:
Volunteer Coaches & Tryout Judges for the Program
PSD Cheer Alumni
Stunt Demonstrator
Gymnastics Coach
Varsity Brands Judge
All-Star and College Cheer Experience