New cheer
coach hasn't slowed Montague's success

Tuesday,
January 19, 2006

By
David Tomczak

CHRONICLE
STAFF WRITER

Montague's competitive cheerleading
team features a new head coach this season.

But don't think the Wildcats are
starting from scratch.

Mary Sanford, the junior varsity
coach for the last four years, is handling double duty this winter with
plenty of success.

"It's
tough but it's really exciting," said Sanford. "(This) is my hometown and
it's exactly what I wanted for a long time."

Sanford started as an assistant coach
under then-varsity coach Paula Moreau in 2002. She's also able to draw from
her experience as a former Wildcat cheerleader from 1997-2000.

"It's very easy having her as
a coach," said senior co-captain Emily Seaver.
"We can relate to her because she knows exactly how we're feeling and
she knows the ins and outs of (cheerleading)."

Sanford has watched the sport grow since
her days on the squad.

"When I was a junior, we had
eight girls on the team," said Sanford.
"Now, we have almost 20. It's a huge step. More and more teams are
getting programs."

And the creation of the Coastal
Competitive Cheer Conference is only helping. Montague is battling Shelby, Fremont and North Muskegon for conference honors.

"It's good to have the
conference," added Sanford.
"We have our first conference meet Wednesday and it builds up the
rivalries."

In the lastest state polls, Shelby is ranked ninth in Class C-D, while
Montague is an honorable-mention selection. The team is made up of 18 girls
-- eight seniors, eight sophomores and a single junior and freshman.

"Our girls get along so
well," Sanford
said. "They've been practicing a long time together."

And Sanford has been there every step.

"The girls I have as seniors
I've been with since eighth grade," said said.
"They've all come a long way."