Wadsworth High School’s Varsity cheerleading team will be led by two new faces, Kristy Doyle and Stephanie Colecchi, for the 2025-2026 season. Both coaches have experience with the Wadsworth Middle School cheerleading program, with Doyle joining in 2023 and Colecchi during the 2024 season.
“When the search began for a new Varsity Head Coach, the administration reached out and asked if I’d consider the role,” said Doyle. “I was honored and excited because they shared my vision of building a unified program that grows and supports athletes from the very beginning all the way through graduation.”
Both cheer coaches wish to provide a strong foundation for teamwork, strength and conditioning in cheerleading and to support their cheerleaders.
“My focus is on building from the ground up,” said Colecchi. “Even for experienced cheerleaders, mastering the basics is key to long-term success. I’m also passionate about strength and conditioning, helping athletes become stronger both physically and mentally. It’s about creating a solid foundation and then continuing to build, grow, and push past limits.”
The varsity coaches hold themselves to high standards, as well as their cheerleaders. Doyle says that she strives to have a solid plan, clear communication and a deep understanding for her cheerleaders to understand. Colecchi
“This season, I want to really hone in on the fundamentals,” said Doyle. “Drills, build skills, and nailing the basics is something we should take pride in. We’ve got some incredibly talented cheerleaders, and I want to help them build not just skill, but strength. Cheerleaders are athletes, and just like any other sport, strength and conditioning are key. A lot of core stunts and motions come from strong core and upper body power.”
Doyle and Colecchi share similar mindsets, yet also have their own standards and expectations for their cheerleaders.
“Every coach has their own style, and I’m not one to compare,” said Colecchi. “I encourage our cheerleaders to adopt the same mindset, to focus on being their best, not someone else’s version of success. I bring a “we’re all in this together” attitude, and I prioritize transparency, safety, and understanding. My goal is to create an environment where everyone feels supported and driven toward shared success.”
The two varsity coaches will start up the 2025-2026 season with practices and training sessions, hoping to bring their cheerleaders up to the best they can be under new trainers and mentors.
