“N-H-S, GO BIG BLUE,” “Let’s go Newport,” and “Go, fight, win!” are popular catchphrases the Lady Buffalo cheerleaders often use to garner enthusiasm in the crowd. Everyone has a chance to chant these too at the high-energy Perry County competitive spirit championship with preppy, familiar fashion. Newport will only face West Perry and Susquenita since Greenwood did not operate a program this season.
The team will head into the season with former assistant coach, now head coach, Megan Kauffman at the head of their program. Respective senior captains Ava Bucher and Isis McNaughton have also led the girls through the past sideline season and will continue to do so throughout the competitive season.
Bucher leads with her best foot forward, doing what is needed for the team and standing up as a voice for all of the girls. “I try my hardest to help any of my teammates that have questions or concerns… we have improved each and every day and worked so hard. I am very proud of all of my teammates and my coaches who have stepped in,” Bucher noted.
McNaughton also makes sure to keep the team spirit up and encourage all of the girls to push past their challenge. She keeps her energy high on the mat and her role as a base has been vital for Newport’s most elite stunts. “I help in any way that I can. I think the season’s going to go well as long as we keep having the strong bond that we have and we keep working together…” McNaughton shared.
Together, the senior duo balances their leadership in favor of helping the program and forming unity with the team.
The Lady Buffs, as previously stated, begin their season in their home gym with the PeCo championship on Nov. 12. Newport took second place here, behind and-still champions, Susquenita. They will then move on to the second-ever Tri-Valley League championships at Halifax Area High School on Nov. 22. After that, Newport will look forward to a possible postseason with the PIAA District III championships placed on Dec. 9 at Central Dauphin East High School.
If the team qualifies, they may attend the PIAA State competitive spirit championships on Jan. 9 and Jan. 10 at 1st Summit Arena in Johnstown, PA.