Within the vibrant gymnasium of Saint Catherine Academy in Belize City, an unsung force propels one of the nation’s most celebrated athletic programs. While the school’s volleyball team has maintained an unprecedented thirty-year championship streak within the Central Secondary Schools Sports Association, a dedicated cheer squad operates as the program’s vital heartbeat. This dynamic group of twenty-five young athletes provides the relentless energy and moral support that has become synonymous with SCA’s winning culture.
Guiding this spirited ensemble is Tamera Locke, a former SCA cheerleader who now mentors the team as faculty moderator. Under her guidance, the cheer program operates as a year-round commitment, beginning with intensive summer practices. These sessions focus on developing original chants, complex stunts, backflips, and coordinated dances that extend far beyond traditional sideline cheering. Locke emphasizes the athletic rigor involved, stating, “We want to make sure that they know that cheer is not just being in a short skirt, but they also put the hard work and talent into it.”
Team captain Kalise Kisling, who has devoted her entire high school career to the squad, exemplifies this commitment. She describes the role as essential to school spirit, particularly when broader student attendance isn’t possible. “We are always there to give the team the moral support that they need,” Kisling explains, highlighting their perfect attendance record at games.
The volleyball team’s captains openly acknowledge this critical support system. Sara Safa, volleyball team captain, notes the personal encouragement she receives during games, while libero Demi Solano attributes part of the team’s resilience to the cheer squad’s uplifting presence during challenging moments. This mutual respect has fostered a profound sisterhood between athletes and cheerleaders that transcends typical school affiliations.
This culture of support extends to the school mascot, Mercy the Seahawk, who joins the cheerleaders in energizing crowds. Together, they create an environment where athletic excellence and community support intertwine, demonstrating that behind three decades of championship volleyball stands a legacy of sisterhood that proves just as unstoppable as the winning streak it supports.