BY DANI TIETZ
dani@sjodaily.com
Being part of the St. Joseph-Ogden cheerleading program has been exactly what senior Tia Pruitt needed growing up.
“I could not imagine not being a part of a cheer squad,” Pruitt said.
Pruitt began cheering with the St. Joseph-Ogden Youth Football program in kindergarten.
Since then, she has soaked up all the information her coaches have been able to provide.
“They have taught me everything I know and always encourage me to be the best I can be,” Pruitt said. “My mom (Jennifer Pruitt) has always pushed me to be the best I can be and is always there to cheer me up and cheer me on when I feel down.”
During her final year as a Spartan, Pruitt has worked to pass on what she’s learned while also continuing to improve her own skills.
Pruitt focused on refining her tumbling skills while helping the younger team members by answering their questions and making them feel welcome on the squad.
For Pruitt, it’s been all about giving back.
“My Spartan family is so kind and supportive,” she said. “I grew up in the program and that makes me feel like I have a family instead of a cheer squad. I’ve known almost all of my teammates my entire life.”
Pruitt hopes that tonight is not the last time she will take the court.
The St. Joseph-Ogden boys’ basketball team hosts state-ranked and unbeaten Bismarck-Henning/Rossville-
“A smile and great spirit to pump up the crowd and cheer on our team,” she said.
