Little Axe Cheer
By Mike Moguin
Shandelle Self has devoted most of her life to the sport of cheerleading for Little Axe High School. She was on the squad as a student in her school days, and has been coaching younger cheerleaders for nearly the past quarter-century.
“I loved supporting all athletes, showing school spirit, and feeling proud to represent my school,” said Self, a 1992 LAHS graduate. “I enjoyed the competitive side of cheer and the lasting relationships I built through the sport. My favorite piece of advice that has stuck with me and that I try to live by is, be kind to others, treat people the way you want to be treated, and live and love like Jesus,” Self said.
Self began coaching cheer at her alma mater in 2000 as an assistant coach, then became the head coach in 2009. She began coaching the middle school as well in 2011.
“So, I now coach both middle school and high school cheer. I also coached the Unified Cheer Team at Oklahoma Twisters for a year, which I absolutely love,” Self said.
Self is known as “Shandi,” “Shandizzle,” and “NaeNae” in cheering circles. She said she is always proud of every team she coaches.
“They’re talented, hardworking, kind, and always willing to help others,” said Self. “My first time qualifying for state in 2011 will always be unforgettable, but every qualification since has been just as special. Winning regional runner-up was a really fun highlight, and it feels like yesterday. There have been so many fun competitions and state appearances throughout the years; they are all my favorites. I’m also proud to have had an All-State cheerleader, several All-American cheerleaders, and to have witnessed them perform at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Additionally, I was honored to be an All-State Coach nominee, received the Pay It Forward Award, and was recently inducted into the OCCA Hall of Fame.”
Self’s favorite part about her athletes representing LAHS as a squad is how they do it for their school and community.
“With heart, kindness, and class,” she said. “They’re always willing to help and never complain. Watching them build friendships, support each other, and form lasting bonds while representing Little Axe makes me incredibly proud.”
If there is one cheerleader that stands out to Self, whom she has coached, it is one who had to battle a serious disease.
“I’ve had many cheerleaders leave big impressions, but Rachel S. (Scott) stands out the most. She never gave up—she fought cancer and never let it get her down,” said Self. “She cheered whenever she was able to and always had a positive attitude and a beautiful smile. Watching her now in college, living life to the fullest and chasing her dreams, is incredible. The relationship we built through her journey is something I will always treasure.”
The support of family has meant a lot to Self.
“Thank you to my family for always supporting not only me, but my cheerleaders, too. Even when it feels like you’re on the back burner, you continue to be my biggest fans,” said Self. “Thank you to all my cheerleaders, past and present, for trusting me and embracing all the fun (and sometimes crazy!) things I have you do. The relationships we have built over the years mean the world to me. I also want to thank my mentors, fellow coaches, administrators, and lastly, my assistant coach for always being by my side.”
