In this edition of the "Coaches Corner" series, we spotlight Elizabeth Cook, a Randolph "Lifer" who is entering her second season as the Middle School Cheer Coach. Cook brings a unique perspective to the role, having grown up as a Randolph Raider herself and now serving as the new Associate Director of College Counseling. With a passion for fostering growth and building confidence in her athletes, Cook is committed to guiding her cheerleaders both on and off the sidelines. In this interview, she shares her insights on coaching, her philosophy, and what sets Randolph's cheer program apart.



Q: What has been the most rewarding part of transitioning from the Advancement team to the College and Career Readiness team?
Elizabeth Cook: As a social worker by degree, I’ve always wanted to be more student- and program-focused. On the Advancement team, I learned a lot about supporting the program and sharing our stories with the Huntsville community. Now, as part of the College Counseling team, I’m involved in helping students in the final stages at Randolph—preparing them for life after high school. It's also great to see some of my former cheerleaders transition to the Garth Campus. I look forward to supporting them throughout their Upper School careers!

Q: What excites you most about working with middle school cheerleaders at Randolph?
Elizabeth Cook: Most middle school cheerleaders are new to the sport on day one, so I love watching them try something for the first time and then see their enthusiasm grow. It’s exciting to be there when they discover new skills and passions!

Q: What are some key values or principles you emphasize to your cheer team?
Elizabeth Cook: One of the main values we emphasize is a growth mindset. Every practice or game is a chance to improve, whether it's a simple forward roll or a more complex stunt. The more you're willing to try and believe in your capability, the more likely you are to succeed. It's about working through challenges and understanding that improvement comes with effort and persistence.

Q: Can you share a memorable moment or achievement with the cheer squad that stands out to you?
Elizabeth Cook: Last year, the girls worked really hard to master a pyramid that involved nearly every cheerleader. When they successfully performed it at a pep rally in front of their peers, the excitement on their faces was priceless. It was a great way to end the season.

Q: What do you think sets Randolph’s cheer program apart from others?
Elizabeth Cook: Unlike many programs, Randolph’s cheerleading doesn't compete, which allows us to be inclusive of different skill levels. We welcome anyone willing to work hard and contribute, regardless of their experience.

Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in coaching middle school cheerleading?
Elizabeth Cook: Recognize the variety of skills and talents your students have and build from there. Don’t try to force the team into a preconceived mold. Every year is different, and flexibility is key.

Q: How do you support your athletes in balancing their academics with their commitments to cheerleading?
Elizabeth Cook: Working full-time at Randolph allows me to stay connected with the teachers of my cheerleaders. This relationship helps me understand what’s happening academically so I can check in with them when needed. Academics come first, and missing practice can be a motivator to stay on top of their studies, especially if it affects their role in a stunt or routine.

Q: What’s one thing you hope your athletes take away from their experience on the cheer squad?
Elizabeth Cook: I hope they build empathy for each other and possibly make new friends. Cheerleading often brings together different social groups that must work as a unit, and it's a great way to learn teamwork and understanding.

Q: What is your coaching philosophy, and how do you implement it with your cheerleaders?
Elizabeth Cook: My coaching philosophy is about creating learning opportunities. We set practice and game expectations as a team and hold each other accountable. If there’s an issue, we address it and move on without judgment. The goal is to be supportive of one another.

Q: How has your own experience as a Randolph student influenced your coaching style?
Elizabeth Cook: My experience taught me the importance of self-advocacy. I encourage my cheerleaders to speak up if they don’t understand something or want to try a different role. It’s important to build confidence in a low-stakes environment like cheer so that they can use those skills elsewhere.

Q: What qualities do you look for in your cheerleaders to build a strong, cohesive team?
Elizabeth Cook: I look for cheerleaders who are willing to put in the effort and do their best, especially when learning new skills. Equally important is the ability to encourage each other. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in building a cohesive team.

Q: Looking forward, what are your goals for the cheer program, and what do you hope to accomplish with your squad this season?
Elizabeth Cook: I’d like to help grow the school’s cheer program by building confidence and enthusiasm from the start. When students enjoy themselves and see improvement in their skills, they’re more likely to continue at the Varsity level.

Q: What has it been like for you to come full circle and coach at the very school where you were once a student?
Elizabeth Cook: Cheerleading gave me a lot of confidence and helped me appreciate my physical capabilities. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the same growth and realization in the students I coach.

Q: How does your experience as a former Randolph Raider influence the way you connect with and coach your athletes today?
Elizabeth Cook: Having been a student here and participated in cheer, I understand the academic pressures the students face. This makes me more empathetic when they struggle to balance their commitments, and I offer flexibility when they want to pursue other activities.

Catch the Randolph Raider Middle School Cheerleaders on the sidelines at middle school football and basketball games this season, showcasing their hard work and school spirit.