Just as Southmoore High School was under construction, so was its pom squad. The squad began with no uniforms, chants or even a school song but they were determined and full of enthusiasm, said Laura Rousseau, pom coach.

And the enthusiasm was evident. Rousseau was recently named the Oklahoma State Dance Team and Directors Association Coach of the Year.

"It is hard to believe that Southmoore High School opened as the newest 6A high school in Oklahoma just a year and a half ago," Rousseau said. "I am very fortunate to have been selected to teach and coach at this beautiful new facility and serve as the Moore Public Schools district pom sponsor."

Although she is relatively new to teaching, dance has been a part of her life for 20 years, including three years as a member of the Moore High School pom squad.

Following high school, she attended Oklahoma State University, earning degrees in secondary education and political science. But Moore still was her home.

"Upon returning to my hometown, I stepped to the other side of the podium, completed my first year of teaching at Moore Central Junior High, served as assistant pom coach for Westmoore High School and began preparing for the move to Southmoore," Rousseau said.

Her enthusiasm was shared with her squad and they won many awards, both with their dance and with academics.

"By the end of our first year, we had won numerous awards including Southmoore High School's first state title, Top Ten finish at UDA NDTC in Orlando, Fla., and received second place in the UDA National American Spirit Award competition," Rousseau said. "Not only are their dance accomplishments outstanding, but academically the girls continue to excel."

The last year and a half have been a challenge and learning experience, not just for Rousseau but for the squad as well, she said.

"But the relationships I have developed with my girls are truly a blessing," she said. "I couldn't be more proud of the young ladies I have the opportunity to spend my days with."

She would not be able to accomplish all that she does with the SaberCats without the support of family, Rousseau said.

"I am blessed with the love and support of my husband, Jordan, our dog, Hadley, our families and especially Ladawna, my assistant coach," she said. "I couldn't do this without you."