Livingston Academy Wildcats cheerleader Molly Mantle did not just come back to the mat this school year. She helped bring the Lady Wildcats back into the spotlight.
After stepping away from the sport during her junior year, Mantle returned to the cheer team at summer camp, reuniting with a program she said has always felt like home. The comeback quickly paid off this year, as Livingston’s cheer team has captured first place in overall gameday and third place in small group cheer amongst rooting on the Wildcats this season in both football and basketball.
“I started cheering because I always wanted to be a cheerleader,” Mantle said. “I started in the fourth grade and it’s always just been a big part in my life. My earliest memories is when we went to [the Universal Cheerleading Association] Camp in Florida and when we went and cheered on the beach.”
That sense of familiarity returned as Mantle and the Lady Wildcats took the floor to unveil new routines in front of the Wildcat faithful. The team has showcased their performances throughout the season that earned them multiple spirit sticks this year and, more importantly, the energy of the crowd.
“It just made everybody clapping, everybody cheering with each other,” Mantle said. “It was just a really good atmosphere.”
Mantle said she is especially looking forward to performing the team’s band dance and band chant as the season continues.
“I’m excited to perform our band dance and our band chant.” Mantle said.
From fourth-grade beginnings to a triumphant return on the Florida stage, Mantle’s path back to the Lady Wildcats has been marked by spirit, perseverance and a renewed love for the sport she has always called her own.