From raising school spirit to fostering positive energy across campus, Guilford’s cheer team has become more than just a club in recent years.

Their sideline support extends far beyond encouragement. As a dedicated coed squad, the team brings athleticism, teamwork and enthusiasm to the college community.

The team performs at Guilford’s basketball and football games and operates as a club under the Office of Student Leadership and Engagement. This year’s tryouts were held March 27–30, led by Jay Dixon, a new addition to Guilford after former coach Brianna Beck’s departure. Registration is open to current students and incoming first-years through a public form on the Athletics website.

There are no strict requirements to join—prior experience isn’t necessary—but new members must demonstrate cooperation, enthusiasm and the ability to work closely with others, since cheerleading relies heavily on coordination and teamwork.

The program is divided into two groups: Crimson Coed, the main game-day squad, and Gray Squad, which functions similarly to alternates and spirit managers. As a chartered student organization, the team follows the college’s club policies and welcomes new members through the Student Leadership and Engagement office.

But what happens when the cheer team suddenly has nothing to cheer for?

Recently, Guilford’s men’s football team was suspended for the remainder of 2025 after a physical altercation broke out during their home game against Averett University. While tensions may have escalated quickly in the moment, the first punch came from a Guilford player. As a result, the team’s final game of the season was removed from the schedule.

The cheerleaders were positioned close enough to witness the entire confrontation. What may have seemed dramatic or surprising at first quickly shifted into disappointment as they watched the consequences unfold.

“They went on and off the field seven whole times and still came back at each other every time,” said cheer team member Kahliyah Baker. “But they’re gone for now, so was it really worth it?”

Despite the fallout, the cheer team continues to practice and put their full effort into what they love, even if it means shifting focus to other sports like volleyball or basketball.

Through it all, Guilford’s cheer team remains one of the most spirited organizations on campus. Their dedication goes beyond the sidelines—they embody the energy, pride and togetherness that keep school spirit alive, even when the teams they cheer for face setbacks.