By Mrs. Katie Rickman
Coach Baylee Connell and the Kossuth High School cheerleaders made school history at the National High School Cheerleading Championship, held January 30–31 and February 1 in Orlando, Florida, earning two national titles in a complete sweep of both divisions they entered.
Competing against elite programs from across the country, Kossuth captured championships in:
• Large Non-Tumbling Gameday
• Small Non-Tumbling Intermediate Traditional
This marked the third time the Kossuth cheer program has competed at the national level. During their previous appearance in 2024, the team returned home with a third-place finish, making this year’s historic double championship an even greater milestone. With these victories, Kossuth became the first school in Mississippi to ever win a national title in these divisions.
The team’s routines were choreographed by Joe Arkansas of Southaven, Mississippi, whose expertise helped prepare the athletes for the national stage.
Head Coach Baylee reflected on the journey and determination behind the championships.
“This weekend was huge for us. From battling an ice storm and getting to the airport to stepping onto the competition floor, these girls have done nothing but eat, sleep, and breathe cheer,” Coach Baylee said. “They’ve put in countless hours after school, on weekends, and during breaks preparing for this moment.”
She emphasized the team’s focus and resilience throughout the competition.
“We knew winning in both divisions was unprecedented, but they set the goal and attacked it every time they hit the mat. Through prelims, semifinals, and finals, they made adjustments, trusted the process, and gave everything they had. The competition was unreal, but so was their determination.”
Senior leaders echoed that mindset.
Senior Kyleigh reflected on the belief that carried the team to the top.
“‘Why not us?’ became our motto this year—why not a team from a small school in Mississippi? What’s standing in the way of a national title other than the work you’re willing to put in? Our hard work paid off, and I’m so proud of this team and the legendary season we’ve had.”
Senior Mak spoke about staying present under pressure.
“You can’t add days to your life, but you can add life to your days. Keeping that in mind helped us find joy even in the hardest moments and reminded us to still have fun, even when the stakes were high.”
Senior Aniston highlighted growth and leadership throughout the season.
“From every late-night practice to every tear and every scream of joy, it was all worth it. I learned what it truly means to be a leader through long talks, encouragement, and even crying together. One quote I said backstage every day was, ‘You can do literally anything in the world for three minutes and thirty seconds. Make it count while you can.’”
Senior Katie Avant reflected on gratitude and perseverance.
“The rush of adrenaline before we ran out and the encouragement we shared throughout the trip was unforgettable. ‘Last time, best time’ reminded me to give everything I had—we didn’t go through an ice storm for nothing.”
Senior Katie Beth spoke about how far the team had come.
“We put in so much hard work, and it all paid off. We came so far from our summer camp, and this was the perfect way to end the season.”
Despite injuries, sickness, and adversity, the team remained united and focused.
“No one sees those battles, but these girls used it all as fuel,” Coach Baylee said. “We are beyond proud to be bringing home two national championships to the Kossuth community.”
The dedication, discipline, and perseverance shown by these athletes reflect the very best of Kossuth students...qualities that extend far beyond the mat and are evident every day in the classroom.
We are so proud of this team and Coach Baylee Connell!
#GoAggies #HornsUp #IAmAKossuthAggie #NationalChamps