The Poteau Pom Squad at Poteau High School, guided by Head Pom Coaches Elena Crouch and Shea Hebert, is in the midst of an energetic and spirited season. Coach Shea Hebert faced the challenge of identifying standout leaders, emphasizing the diversity of strengths among the dancers. She singled out Alyah Cooper, a Junior, as the MVP of a recent Miss PHS Pageant fundraiser, acknowledging her exceptional leadership during the event. However, according to both coaches, each member of the squad brings a unique aspect to the team: “They really all have different strengths in leadership qualities!”
The summer was a period of dedicated effort for the squad, with early morning practices from 5-7 a.m. aimed at mastering four different routines and training new members. These sessions focused on refining turns, leaps, jumps and formations, laying the groundwork for an impressive performance season.
Beyond routine practices, the team engaged in Game Day mornings, pep rallies, halftimes, fundraisers and competitions, showcasing their commitment to excellence. Coach Elena Crouch emphasized their primary goal: “To bring joy and help create lasting memories and friendships for our dancers, the crowd, on the sidelines and in the stands.”
While the focus remains on fostering school spirit at football games and home basketball halftimes, the squad aspired for state-level competition. Although this didn’t materialize this year, the coaches are determined to utilize judges’ feedback to enhance performances in the upcoming season.
To strengthen team cohesion, the pom squad incorporates ‘share time’ at the end of each practice, allowing dancers to connect personally. The coaches maintain a positive and supportive environment, responding constructively to criticism and organizing yearly retreats for team bonding.
As new coaches inheriting a large and successful program, Shea Hebert and Elena Crouch are committed to maintaining excellence while identifying areas for improvement. Their advice to aspiring dancers echoes the sentiment of taking chances, putting in the work, and relishing the rewarding experience of being part of the Pirate community.
Looking ahead, the Poteau Pom Squad is enthusiastic about finding innovative ways to promote school spirit, compete at the state level and bring joy to their supportive community. The Pirates are set to embark on a season filled with enthusiasm, camaraderie and stellar performances. Coach Shea Hebert encapsulates the team’s spirit with a resounding, “Go Pirates!”
