Some athletes thrive under the bright lights of Friday nights, but for Broken Bow senior cheerleader Cloey Burcham, the true satisfaction comes from growth and leadership. “My personal goals heading into this season are to grow as a cheerleader and lead my team to be the best we can be,” she said.
That drive for improvement is shared across the squad. “Our team has had an absolutely mind-blowing morale this year, we all come in eager to win and work hard together!” Burcham explained.
The payoff has already shown itself in the way the team performs. “Our teamwork has definitely improved as a whole,” she said.
Broken Bow has set the bar high for 2025, and Burcham is proud of the determination her teammates bring every day. “We are after the 4A championship this year. We have been practicing hard and staying focused!”
For Burcham, who serves as team captain, the secret to success is rooted in energy and unity. “Energy and talent” are what she sees as the team’s biggest strengths.
As captain, her leadership extends beyond chants and stunts. “Focus and repetition” are what she relies on when learning new skills. And when the routines require stamina, she knows how to prepare: “Hydration and energy.”
Game day, of course, comes with its own mindset. “Confident, locked in, ready to do my best,” she said of stepping onto the mat or field.
Beyond the routines, Burcham also wants to leave something behind for those who will follow. “I want to be remembered by my encouragement I try and show to everyone I come across,” she said.
It’s easy to overlook how much work cheer requires, but Burcham hopes fans understand. “How much time and effort we all put in behind the scenes” is something she wishes more people knew.
Her achievements speak for themselves—two-time All-American, finalist at gameday cheer, a trip to Hawaii to march in the Pearl Harbor parade, and even an invitation to be a UCA staffer. Yet her favorite memory remains close to home. “The very first pep rally of my senior year when I finally understood what real school spirit is.”
Looking ahead, Burcham already has her future mapped out. “To obtain my degree in elementary education and become a teacher at Broken Bow!”
