By Ken Hansard

Seneca High School senior cheerleader Jacee Stephens has been a base for the Indians’ cheer squad since she was a freshman.  During that time, the Indians have won the Missouri State competition each time (and four years in a row), and this year they will be gunning for a fifth straight state title, so both literally and figuratively, Stephens has been a solid foundation for the team to build upon.

It is easy to see why Seneca’s cheer program has built such a strong culture in their community.  When asked about her role with the team, Jacee responded, “I see my role as being a leader and someone the littles can look up to. I try to stay very positive and uplifting for my team, striving to give 100% effort all the time.”

Giving that kind of effort can take a toll, especially with the team’s busy schedule.  “Our practices are three days a week where we prepare and perfect our performances that we do at football and basketball games. Wednesdays are our competition days, so those are the days we perfect our regionals and state routines.”

Despite the intense regimen, Stephens makes sure to appreciate the opportunity that cheer has afforded her, “I love all of the traditions we have from the bonfire, to the day of the game where we have pep rally’s all day, to the parade, and then the game that night.  I am also looking forward to hopefully winning regionals and state with my team again and just making every last moment very memorable.”

Individually, Stephens has been named All-State for jumps, and was also named Academic All-State, and for this year, she was additionally honored as an All-American.

After high school, Jacee’s plan is to go to college.  She is considering studying dentistry.