For Leominster High School senior Arianna Pastor, cheerleading has been more than a sport — it’s been a journey of growth, trust, and quiet leadership. Though she didn’t start cheering until her freshman year, Arianna’s background in gymnastics and her deep connection to the program helped her find her footing quickly.
“I actually got into cheer because of my mom,” Arianna said. “She introduced me to it.”
That family connection runs deep. Head coach Tracey Hartman has known Arianna since she was born — she even coached Arianna’s mom years ago in both gymnastics and cheer.
“The trust needed in a coach-athlete relationship was already set when Ari joined our program,” Hartman said. “Having a parent that understood my coaching philosophy and the standard of what it means to be a student-athlete definitely prepared Ari to be ready to be coached.”
Over the past four years, Arianna has become a model of consistency and effort.
“She’s eager to learn and patient with herself and teammates,” Hartman said. “Her temperament is predictable — we get the same athlete to coach each day, and she always gives her best effort. To say that is special is an understatement.”
Arianna has been an integral part of LHS Cheer’s success in the Game Day Division, where her flying skills, tumbling, and showmanship have helped the team finish in the top three in the state multiple times, including earning one state championship.
When asked what she loves most about the sport, Arianna’s answer is simple: “Football games.” But beyond the excitement under the Friday night lights, it’s the bonds she’s built with her teammates that mean the most to her. “We’ve created really strong connections,” she said.
Arianna hopes to continue cheering or dancing in college, and she’s already proven she has the drive to do so. At LHS, her favorite class has been Health Assisting with Mrs. Poulin, which reflects her caring and determined nature — qualities that shine both on the sidelines and off.
Coach Hartman summed up her senior’s impact perfectly: “Arianna has grown from novice to veteran in her time with us. She’s steady, coachable, and kind — everything a teammate and coach could hope for.”
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