Carroll ISD’s Unified Cheer Team Prepares to Shine at State Competition

Carroll ISD’s Special Olympics Unified Cheer Team is gearing up to showcase their skills and Dragon pride at the State Cheer Competition during the NCA Cheer Competition on Friday, January 24, 2025. This exciting event will take place at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, marking a major milestone for this incredible group of athletes and their supporters.

About the Unified Cheer Program

Unified Cheer is in its second year at Carroll ISD and represents an inspiring collaboration of athletes and mentors. The team includes 9 Unified athletes and 9 Special Olympics athletes, who have trained together since the fall to prepare for this moment. Through a buddy system of mentorship, Unified Cheer highlights the power of teamwork and the true spirit of competition.

This year marks a big step forward as the team transitions from a traditional Special Olympics team to a Unified Cheer program, incorporating members of the Dragon Cheer Team (middle school and up) alongside Special Olympics athletes aged 8 to 18.

Competition Details

The Unified Cheer Team will take the stage in the Arena at 7:21 PM to compete in their main event of the season. After months of hard work, their performance promises to be a highlight of the evening and an unforgettable celebration of determination, passion, and Dragon pride.

Event Information:

• What: NCA Cheer Competition / State Special Olympics Competition
• When: Friday, January 24, 2025
• Where: Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center
  650 S. Griffin St., Dallas, TX 76202
• Parking: Paid parking is likely required.
• Tickets: Tickets are not required for Friday-only events 

Meet the Team Behind the Magic

The Unified Cheer program is supported by a dedicated group of coaches and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure the success of these athletes:

• Chloe Tracy – Volunteer Cheer Coach
• Ashley Poteet – Adapted PE Teacher and Head of Delegation
• Victoria Heffington – CMS Teacher and Cheer Coach
• Sarah Keenan – OUES Teacher and SO Coach
• Jeyton Freed – OUES Teacher and Volunteer
• Dianela Peterson – Diagnostician and Volunteer
• Robin Gondeck – Instructional Coach and SO Coach

These leaders have poured their hearts into this program, fostering a supportive environment where all athletes can thrive.

What’s Next for the Unified Team?

Following the cheer competition, the team will transition into basketball season, continuing to build connections, develop skills, and make lasting memories.

As the Unified Cheer Team heads to Dallas, the entire Dragon community is invited to join in celebrating their hard work and dedication. Come out, cheer loud, and show your support for this amazing group of athletes as they represent the heart of Carroll ISD!

#DragonProud #UnifiedCheer #SpecialOlympicsofTexas