Rochester cheer is ready to bring new energy to Rocket Nation as the 2026 season gets underway.
Captains Jamison Boudouris and Mia Connor have spent the summer preparing new material, including more stunts, jumps, pyramids and signs, while also finding new ways to engage the Rochester crowd.
“We’ve just really been trying to work on new material for the stands and show things that we haven’t been doing recently,” Boudouris said.
One new fan-engagement activity involves dice, giving students a chance to participate with the cheerleaders during games.
“I think the students like it a lot because we don’t have a lot that engages the students,” Connor said. “So for them to participate with us, it’s something that’s really fun for everybody.”
The captains also praised Coach Kirsten Damhoff for her work building the program.
“We all just love her so much,” Boudouris said. “She’s put so much into this program over the two years that she’s been here, and she just wants us to be better.”
As upperclassmen, both captains are focused on helping younger cheerleaders enjoy their experience. Connor encouraged them not to be afraid to put themselves out there, while Boudouris emphasized having fun and making the most of their four years.
For Boudouris, one of her favorite Rochester cheer memories is “Don’t Stop Believing” during football games and watching the entire crowd come together. Connor said she has enjoyed seeing the growth of the cheer team, football program and Rochester community.
That community is what makes Rocket Nation special.
“Everybody shows up. Everybody loves everybody,” Boudouris said. “We all love Rocket football. We love all of the sporting events and every sport here, and we all just come together when it means the most.”
As captains, Connor and Boudouris are embracing their leadership roles and looking to make the connection between the team and crowd even stronger.
Their message to Rocket Nation is simple: show up, be loud and participate.
“When we say, you yell it back,” Boudouris said.
With new routines, more crowd interaction and plenty of Rocket spirit, Rochester cheer is ready for another memorable season.
And when asked if Rochester would beat Moline in the opener, both captains had the same answer:
“Yeah!”
