Creighton brings back coed cheer team, building a new tradition of spirit
After nearly 30 years, Creighton has reintroduced a coed cheer team to the Bluejay sideline. The new squad will support game days across campus and bring fresh energy to events in Omaha.
Ava Limbo, Creighton’s director of Spirit Programs, oversees the University’s spirit initiatives, including dance, cheer, pep band and Blue Crew. “My role is enhancing the game day experience,” Limbo said. “We looked at what could make the environment more fun, and adding a cheer team was a no-brainer.”
A program rebuilt
Limbo joined Creighton in April and began laying the groundwork right away. The team held virtual auditions in May, a two-round process that asked for basic skills first, then sideline material, stunting and more advanced tumbling. Limbo hired head cheer coach Nicole Heider and the group trained through summer before arriving in the fall.
“The dancers are a well-oiled machine,” Limbo said. “We mirrored what works operationally and tailored it for cheer. The team gets along, works hard and understands what an honor it is to be part of the squad here.”
Community ambassadors
From the start, the team has paired campus duties with community appearances. “They have been visible at local events,” Limbo said. “Storm Chasers, pro volleyball, elementary schools, church gatherings—we wanted them to be ambassadors for Creighton across Omaha.” Student leaders setting the bar
Junior biology major Sydney Keller serves as a captain. “Joining the new team was a dream,” Keller said. “There was no bar set, so we’re setting it. We are learning each other’s strengths in stunting and tumbling and building a foundation future teams can grow from.”
Keller said the most meaningful part has been the bond. “We came in as a brand-new group. It was easy to come together,” she said. “We want to show up for Creighton and bring real spirit to every game.”
Sophomore biology major Soryn VanHerpen is a co-captain. She cheered in high school and was eager to get back to the sport. “When I heard a team might form, I promised myself I would try out,” VanHerpen said. “My favorite part is the people. I have made so many friends. Being co-captain has given me leadership experience I did not have before.”
She describes the team culture as supportive and close. “It felt natural from day one,” VanHerpen said. “We laugh a lot, we spot each other and we make sure no one hits the floor. We want to support each other when we try new skills.”
Built for Bluejay pride
Nebraska is a strong cheer and dance state, and Limbo sees the program as a new avenue for students to grow at Creighton. “We wanted to offer this opportunity to our students,” she said. “Their first big event made all the work worth it. They felt like part of Athletics and part of the Creighton community.”
For Keller, the purpose is simple. “Show up,” she said. “Bring an image of people who fight for spirit at Creighton. That matters.”
For VanHerpen, it is about belonging and impact. “We are building something together,” she said. “It is exciting to be part of the group that brings cheer back.”
What’s next
The team will appear at volleyball, women’s and men’s basketball and campus events throughout the year, working alongside the dance team to elevate the fan experience.
Limbo sums it up this way: “Look happy. Look confident. Represent the Creighton community. This team is ready.”
