Guthrie High Cheerleader Signs with Missouri Southern State

Kate Jaena will continue her cheer career at the collegiate level after signing with the Lions' spirit squad.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 7:10pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a high school cheerleader in mid-jump, with the bright colors of the cheer uniforms breaking down into sharp, overlapping planes.A talented high school cheerleader's signing with a college spirit squad represents the dedication and skill of the school's cheer program.Joplin Today

Guthrie High School senior Kate Jaena, the captain of the Lady Jays cheer team, has officially signed to cheer at Missouri Southern State University. Jaena signed during a ceremony at the GHS library, surrounded by family, teammates, friends, and school staff.

Why it matters

Jaena's signing represents an exciting opportunity for the talented cheerleader to continue her athletic career at the collegiate level. As the senior captain of the Guthrie High cheer team, her achievement highlights the dedication and skill of the school's spirit program.

The details

Jaena will join the Lions' spirit squad at Missouri Southern State University in Joplin. She will cheer on the school's athletic programs as part of the university's cheer team, which is led by head spirit squad coach Kristen Hermann.

  • Kate Jaena signed with Missouri Southern State University this past week.

The players

Kate Jaena

A senior at Guthrie High School and the captain of the Lady Jays cheer team.

Pam Johnson Fields

The cheer coach at Guthrie High School.

Kristen Hermann

The head spirit squad coach at Missouri Southern State University.

Missouri Southern State University

A university located in Joplin, Missouri, where Kate Jaena will continue her cheer career.

Guthrie High School

The high school that Kate Jaena attends and where she was the captain of the cheer team.

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What they’re saying

“Congratulations to our senior captain, Kate, for signing at MSSU! We're so proud of you!!”

— Pam Johnson Fields, Guthrie High School Cheer Coach

The takeaway

Kate Jaena's signing with Missouri Southern State University's cheer program is a testament to her dedication and talent as a high school cheerleader. Her achievement highlights the strength of Guthrie High School's spirit program and the opportunities available for talented student-athletes to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level.