Built on Belief: Mansfield Cheer’s Breakout Comeback Season

After years away from competition, Mansfield Cheer returned with heart, grit, and a top-four finish that turned heads across the state.

It’s not every day a high school team breathes new life into a sport—and into school spirit—quite like the Mansfield High School cheer squad did this past year.

Under the leadership of Coach Danielle Overton, Mansfield returned to the competitive cheer scene for the first time since 2018. What followed wasn’t just a comeback. It was a statement.

Overton, who previously coached nine successful seasons at Lavaca, stepped into her role at Mansfield ready to introduce something new. Cheerleading has always had a strong presence at Mansfield, but this year marked the first time in years the program embraced the world of competitive cheer. With a deep history in the sport and a heart for mentorship, Overton brought more than just routines—she brought belief. And her journey here is also personal. She’s married to Whit Overton, Mansfield’s head football coach, and together they’re helping build a culture of connection and excellence across the school’s athletics.

“When I introduced the idea of competitive cheer, I could tell it was new territory—but they bought in,” Overton said. “They believed in it.”

And that belief turned into something special. Competing in Arkansas’s highly competitive 3A division, the Mansfield cheerleaders didn’t just show up—they showed out, placing in the top four at the state finals. For a team whose biggest goal was simply to get to finals, it was a moment that exceeded every expectation.

But this season was about more than medals. It was about building a team identity, from scratch, with athletes who had never been part of a competitive squad before. It was about trusting the process, and each other.

“My favorite part was watching them take ownership,” Overton said. “They started out unsure, but by the end, they were leading. Their skill, their pride, their confidence—it was unbelievable. But we did it. And now? We want to win.”

Overton believes the team’s chemistry made all the difference. “They’re the most coachable team I’ve ever had,” she said. “They want to work hard. And truly, they’re the least dramatic group I’ve coached, which makes it a great experience for everyone.”

That culture was felt throughout the squad.

Adeline Godwin, in her second year of cheer, said the season’s biggest moment was clear: “Competing at state finals—because that was our goal the whole season,” she said. “Coach Overton always believed in us. I’m so grateful for her.”

Aiden Fildez, who has been cheering since preschool, said the team’s closeness was what made the season special. “We’re like a family,” she said. “My advice for anyone thinking about cheer? Be tough, push through it, always smile—no matter what.”

Senior Hallie Oliver, who’s cheered for three years, said cheer has been a lifelong dream. She’s considering continuing after high school while studying to become a nurse. “It’s just something I’ve always wanted to do,” she said. “Friday night football is my favorite—there’s nothing like cheering under the lights.”

Freshman Raihan Black joined the team for the first time this year and quickly found his place. “The environment is so positive. Everyone lifts each other up,” he said. He’s especially excited about the summer camps ahead—and says that seeing older teammates lead has been inspiring. “Logan Ore is someone I really look up to. He’s a great role model—he’s confident, he works hard, and he sets a standard the rest of us want to follow.”

Logan, who also plays football, will return as a senior next year. He never expected to be part of the cheer team—but that changed when Coach Overton encouraged him to try something different. “It really pushed me to get out of my comfort zone,” he said. “And just to be okay to stand out.” His advice to anyone curious about cheer? “Just come in with an open mind, and try out for the experience.”

For Coach Overton, those moments of personal growth are just as meaningful as any title.

“How do you measure success beyond trophies and titles?” she said. “We’re not just coaching athletes. We’re shaping people. You don’t always see the results right away, but when a former athlete sends you a graduation announcement or a wedding invitation, you know you made a difference.”

“I always say—once you’re my kid, you’re my kid for life.”

This past season, Mansfield cheer gave the town something it hasn’t had in a while: a new reason to be proud. They brought the community together. They reminded us that small schools can do big things. And they made it clear—they’re just getting started.

It was, in every sense, the comeback, the breakout, the belief.

So next year, get ready.

The routines will be tougher. The goals will be bigger. And the team will be back—louder, stronger, and more determined than ever to keep raising the bar.
Because this isn’t just about cheer.
It’s about Mansfield.