Amanda Neitzel
Cheerleading has become the family business, and business is pretty dang good.
Following in the footsteps of older sister Maddy, who made an electric debut last year, Coupeville High School junior Amanda Neitzel is out to take the cheer world by storm this fall.
“I started because I saw my sister cheer and she would come home and tell me about how much fun she was having and how all the girls were so close,” Neitzel said. “I’ve always wanted to be part of a team.
“I love how all of us are all really close, we truly are one big family,” she added. “All the veterans are really helpful if you ask them for extra help on routines or cheers; they’re always there for you.”
Putting in hard work is a big part of being part of the Wolf cheer squad, something not always properly appreciated by those on the outside.
“We work really hard at every practice,” Neitzel said. “For our stunt groups our bases have to have strong enough legs and arms in order to get our flyers up in the air and keep them there.
“We work just as hard as any other sports team at our school.”
When she’s not slaving away at practice, Neitzel enjoys science class and loves Harry Potter, Iron Man and The Avengers (“I love anything Marvel”), while also harboring a semi-secret talent.
“I love to sing, but I’m really shy, so I don’t sing a lot in front of people.”
Those closest to her, friends and family, ease that shyness and make sure Neitzel feels appreciated and loved.
“My family and friends have helped to shape me who I am, they are all such amazing people and I’m thankful to have them all in my life,” she said. “Anytime I’m feeling down I have them to talk to and they always help put a smile on my face!
“I’m also pretty thankful for my best friend because she’s a lot like me; we are both huge goofballs and we make each other laugh a lot.”
Two women, though, stand as Neitzel’s closest companions, and she treasures every moment she has with them.
“My momma has always told me that I can do anything I put my mind to. She is my biggest supporter and she’s honestly the strongest person I know,” she said. “She always tells me how strong and smart I am and believes in me.
“My sister too; we may not always get along but Maddy’s my best friend and she’s always there for me and I’m always there for her.”
Coupeville Sports 