When Carson Chesnut ’22 learned she was named the head cheer captain for the St. Thomas Cheer Team, she jumped up and screamed with joy. Her mom caught the whole thing on video. She had reason to be excited: she’s the first person ever to hold that title.

Typically, there are two co-captains for the cheer team, which is made up of students from IWA, St. Agnes Academy and Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart. Carson, however, received the most votes from both the JV and varsity cheerleaders who elect the captains. Because she was such an overwhelming choice, the position of head cheer captain was created just for her. The other co-captains are students from St. Agnes and Duchesne, marking the first time the team’s leadership has seen all three schools represented.

“Carson always takes a lead role, collaborating on ideas for the team,” said cheer coach Paola Boitel ’14, who has watched Carson grow over the last three years. “This is definitely more of a leadership role, and she will do a great job.”

Carson is also a member of the National Honor Society, captain of the swim team and on the track and field team, as well as serving as a Falcon Ambassador and on the Campus Ministry Team.

“I cannot wait to help the cheer team become stronger and closer, uniting our three schools together,” said Carson. “I look forward to my last year and all of the new opportunities that I hope to bring as the head captain!”