If you have attended a football or basketball game, there is no doubt you have seen the Baker University cheer team. However, the team’s role extends far beyond sideline and halftime routines. With preparation beginning early in the fall semester, the Lady Wildcats set their sights on competing at UCA Nationals each January in Orlando, Florida, one of the most prestigious stages in collegiate cheerleading.
While gameday performances remain an important part of the program, competition season demands a higher level of intensity. Sophomore Jaiden Fisher explained that preparing for UCA Nationals is “a lot more intense compared to game days,” adding that although she enjoys gamedays, “UCA season is my favorite.”
According to Fisher, this portion of the season allows athletes to push themselves and their teammates while competing against the best programs in the country. The team’s preparation schedule reflects this intensity. From Dec. 29 through Jan. 14, the cheer team held at least one practice per day, often practicing twice daily. In addition to scheduled practices, the athletes were expected to spend extra time in the gym working on partner stunts or individual skills. Fisher noted that most days were spent training for hours or watching film to identify areas for improvement.
Tryouts for Baker Cheer begin in early October, shortly after the homecoming season concludes, with practices continuing into winter break. Tryout evaluations vary depending on which team best suits each athlete. Head coach Melissa Shipman explained that gameday routines typically include more athletes because they represent “what we bring to Liston Stadium on Saturdays.” Gameday routines emphasize crowd engagement, school traditions, the fight song and sideline presence. In contrast, the traditional competition category focuses heavily on difficulty. Traditional routines include elite-level stunting and tumbling, challenging athletes to perform at a higher technical standard.
Reflecting on the team’s performance this season, Shipman said that while gameday routines were strong, “neither performance was what we were hoping for; we had drops in each performance.” She also emphasized that the Wildcats’ division continues to grow more competitive each year, with Baker facing NAIA, junior college and Division III programs. Injuries and illnesses further impacted the team’s season, contributing to frequent lineup changes.
“It’s hard to keep a team motivated when you feel like you’re getting punched from every angle,” Shipman said, noting that returning from injury requires resilience and mental toughness.
Despite the challenges, representing Baker University on the national stage remains a meaningful experience. Fisher shared that competing at UCA Nationals is especially rewarding because Baker is a smaller school competing against much larger universities and community colleges. She explained that showcasing Baker’s talent on such a stage creates pride and reinforces the sense of home within the program.
Looking ahead, Baker Cheer has released its competition schedule and is focused on securing a bid to NAIA Nationals later in March. For Fisher, the ultimate goal extends beyond competition results. She emphasized the importance of personal growth and team unity, explaining that while winning is rewarding, the bonds formed with teammates and the strength of the program are what make cheerleading special. Shipman echoed this sentiment, expressing pride in the senior class for its commitment to the program and its efforts to leave a lasting legacy at Baker University.
