At Dickinson State University (DSU), the cheer program has long been a part of the game-day experience. Today, DSU Competitive Cheer stands atop the national rankings, a testament to the dedication, hard work, and foundation laid by past generations of cheerleaders.
The story of DSU cheerleading is rich with tradition. Early squads were focused on supporting the football and basketball teams, leading chants, and engaging the crowd. However, in the late 1990s, a pivotal change occurred: the inclusion of male cheerleaders. This shift, spearheaded by cheerleaders like Jolene (Vaira) Geary and Greg Guswiler, introduced more complex stunting, pushing the program toward greater athleticism and skill.
Guswiler claims the distinction of being the first DSU male cheerleader. Without prior experience, he stepped up when Hal Haynes, then director of the Campus Activities Board and Cheer Team advisor, suggested, “Man, I really would like it if we could get some guys on the cheer squad.”
Guswiler was a part of the team from 1996-1999. He recalled, “I accepted the challenge and went to practice. I was the only guy there, so I recruited Joel Emter and Casey Scherer that first year.”
Guswiler’s involvement helped pave the way for greater diversity and inclusion within DSU’s cheerleading program. Under the guidance of leaders like team captain Jeana McClusky and advisor Hal Haynes, DSU’s cheer team was recognized as one of the best in the Dakota Athletic Conference.
The 1990s and early 2000s saw an expansion of DSU’s spirit programs, with the introduction of the “Dazzlers” dance team and continued growth in cheerleading. Athletes like Kelly (Johnson) Aberle and Crystal (Wenko) Askvig recalled the excitement of game days, mastering challenging stunts, and building a culture of excellence that continues to define DSU Cheer today.
Stephanie (Nile) Osborne, team captain who cheered from 2011-2015, experienced firsthand the team’s shift from a sideline support group to a more structured, highly skilled athletic program. “We weren’t just there to lead cheers; we were athletes in our own right,” she reflected.
In 2018, DSU Cheer took an important step forward with the hiring of head coach Cebe Schneider. Under her leadership, the program transformed into a competitive powerhouse. The team’s first competitive season in 2020 ended with a No. 13 national ranking – an impressive feat for a first-year program.
But DSU was just getting started.
Climbing the Ranks to #1
Year after year, DSU Competitive Cheer continued to push boundaries. In 2021-2022, the team earned its first bid to the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Competitive Cheer Nationals, finishing in 4th place. They repeated this achievement in 2022-2023, and placed 5th in 2023-2024.
The 2024-2025 season has marked a defining moment for DSU Cheer: DSU is currently ranked number one in the nation.
Coach Schneider attributes the program’s success to a culture of discipline, teamwork, and respect for those who paved the way.
As DSU Competitive Cheer celebrates its number one ranking, it also honors the legacy of those who came before. Today, they aren’t just the spirit behind the game – they are the best in the nation.
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By Debora Dragseth, Baker Boy Professor of Leadership
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