“Live, Laugh, Lo.” This is what members of Chadwick’s newly formed Pom Squad say as a reference to their coach Loriel “Lo” Hennington and a reflection of the team’s spirit.
Their energy was on display during this year’s Fall Fest, when the squad performed their routines before a packed crowd. Their performance drew cheers from students of all ages, and a few Lower Village children even ran up afterward to share their excitement.
The Pom Squad, or “the Poms,” as they call themselves, has already established its spirit on campus by appearing at football games, volleyball matches, and Fall Fest.
Their goal is simple: spread spirit, encourage support for all sports, and ensure that Chadwick cheers louder than ever before.
Currently, the team has ten members: Captain Carolina Nguyen-Garay ‘27, Founder Scarlette Schumacher ‘26, Zia Figueroa ‘29, Gia Song ‘29, Alex Grant ‘29, Scarlett Duke ‘29, Kathryn Chen ‘29, Luci Wales 28’, Peyton Joiner ‘28, and Julia Sacco ‘27.
Hennington explained that the team formed through open sign ups. “I had no idea who was joining,” she said. “We didn’t have auditions, just interest.”
Schumacher first got the idea for a cheer team when touring Chadwick as a prospective 6th-grader.
“I noticed that many of the schools I was looking at had a cheer team, and I noticed that Chadwick didn’t have that, and its sense of spirit wasn’t where it could be.”
Being a dancer for most of her life, Schumacher felt responsible to fix this problem. With help from her parents and the athletic department, Scarlette pitched the idea to the school’s administration and was met with many people who were interested:
“I quickly realized that everyone had a great passion, and people who had never danced before were coming together.”
The team plans to cheer in both winter and fall sports, traveling to away games, and bringing Chadwick’s spirit wherever the Dolphins compete.
Under Hennington’s guidance, the team has built an identity that feels both professional and personal. Her background as a world-touring choreographer has given the team a polished edge, and her mentorship has created an environment where students feel empowered to take risks and grow.
Hennington choreographs most of the routines herself, but she also invites student input. “If someone has a cool trick or solo, I love incorporating it,” she said.
The mix of artistry and encouragement defines what the Poms are all about. As Hennington put it, they are “high achieving, spirited, and talented.”
Associate Athletic Director Theresa Reyes has been impressed by the team’s growing presence.
“They’ve been doing great bringing school spirit to games, and their performances have been really well received,” she said.
She is excited to see how the team develops: “I think it’ll only get better as the year goes on. They’ve been eager to be a part of everything, which is fun to see.”
For Nguyen-Garay, stepping into the role of team captain has been both exciting and rewarding. As a dancer who’s brand-new to cheer, she’s embraced the challenge of leading Chadwick’s first-ever squad with energy and warmth.
“I love all the girls. We’ve created such a positive environment,” she said, noting that what inspires her most is the team’s mix of personalities and backgrounds.
From fun routines to group choreography that highlights each member with a solo moment, the Poms bring together skill, spirit, and a little chaos. More than anything, though, Nguyen-Garay hopes her legacy as captain is remembered for building a community where everyone feels supported and celebrated.
“At the end of the day, it’s about having fun and being part of a team,” she said.
As the Poms continue to grow, their impact on Chadwick is already undeniable.
With Hennington’s expertise, Nguyen’s leadership, and the energy of every dancer—experienced and brand-new alike—the squad has quickly become a symbol of pride on campus.