As Chillicothe High School (CHS) cheer coach Nancy Arledge finishes her last year leading the program, the CHS cheer team placed fourth in the 2022 Ohio Association of Secondary School Administrators (OASSA) State Competition. Due to the pandemic, Arledge said that her last season has been interesting and full of trials, but her team persevered in the competition with their maturity, determination, care and hard work.  

Arledge has served as CHS’ cheer coach for 12 years, and during that time, the team has won the 2018 OASSA State Championship, traveled to bowl games in Florida and New Orleans to cheer and explore new places and developed a sense of camaraderie that has expanded the program. As Arledge, who is also a teacher in the district, retires, she reminisces on the growth she has seen within the district cheerleading program.  

“I have been blessed to be able to play a small part in the lives of so many amazing young adults,” said Arledge. “Coaching is not all about the games and competitions, but also about the relationships you create.”  

One of Arledge’s notable memories includes CHS’ recognition as the 2019 OASSA Community Service Award winner, earned thanks to the team’s contributions to help improve the Chillicothe community through their partnership with the Pioneer Career and Technology Center and Camp Can Do. The CHS cheerleaders also hosted a blood drive and volunteered at the Pomona Grange booth at the Ross County Fair.    

“To foster a desire to give back to others and our community is a huge part of who we are as a team,” she said. “To see former athletes continuing to give back to others makes me so proud of them.” 
Arledge thanks all administrators, coaches, parents, cheerleaders and the entire Cavalier Nation for supporting her on her journey while allowing her to do what she loves. We will miss her leadership and guidance to our students, especially the cheerleading team, and look forward to the future of the program!