Sauerteig signs to cheer for Grace College

The REPORTER

Hamilton Heights senior Carlie Sauerteig has signed a letter of intent to cheer for the Grace College Lancers this fall. Grace College is a member of the Crossroads League and a NAIA athletic institution. She is the daughter of Jeff and Wendy Sauerteig.

Sauerteig said there were many things that inspired her to choose Grace College including but not limited to the people she has met, the ability to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in four years and the opportunity to continue cheering.

“In November, I attended a scholarship day and cheer open gym,” she explained. “I fell in love with the beauty of the campus and the surrounding area. Moreover, the people I met truly made me feel like I found my home. There was some down time during the interviews on scholarship day, so other prospective students and I played games and got to know each other. Everyone was so authentic and caring. The way they let God’s light shine throughout their daily activities is so clear and inspiring.”

Sauerteig continued, “The open gym I attended with the current cheer team was perfect. I felt so supported and empowered and was able to do skills that I had not done in years. Coaches Durando and Anderson were so kind and welcoming. The next day, I received the offer and opportunity to continue cheerleading at the college level. They were extremely patient with me throughout my decision process.”

Sauerteig plans to seek a degree in facility and event management with minors in sports management and Spanish. After college, she hopes to become a wedding planner and coordinator.

Sauerteig is a dedicated student athlete who has served as a Student Athletic Aide during the spring season since her freshman year. She earned her varsity letter blanket and four-year varsity letters for both fall and winter cheerleading seasons. Within the cheer program she received the leadership award, which is voted on by her fellow teammates. Academically, she has been among the 10 percent in her class all four years of high school. In addition, she is a member of the National Honor Society and works at Erika’s Place.

“I have been passionate about my sports since I was six years old,” recalled Sauerteig, who began cheering competitively in kindergarten. After an injury sidelined her as a competitive cheerleader in middle school, she began building her skills back in 2019. As a high school cheerleader, she attended all practices, games, and works to improve every day. “I can’t wait to see my progress over the next four years at Grace!”

She credits her sister Madison as being the biggest influence on the person she is becoming, supporting her through all the highs and lows, never leaving her side. She is also grateful for her parents who have attended every game she has cheered and supported her through this journey as well. “I am so thankful for the foundation of love provided to me by my family,” she added.

“Carlie is a natural-born leader who loves her school and her peers,” Hamilton Heights Varsity Cheerleading Coach Amanda Engle said. “She is incredibly organized and always makes sure everyone has what they need to be successful. Carlie has been a joy to coach for the past four years as she is always willing to fill-in any stunting position that is asked of her as well as take lead in any capacity. Carlie’s leadership skills, work ethic, organizational skills, spirit, and smile will be incredibly missed next year! Grace is extremely lucky to be gaining such an all-around wonderful cheerleader.”

“Carlie is the ultimate role model for Hamilton Heights High School,” Hamilton Heights Athletic Director Kurt Ogden said. “Smart, athletic, personable, and coachable all describe Carlie Sauerteig the past four years. She will be a great addition to the Grace College Lancers cheerleading squad, and we wish her the best.”