KEARNEY – As Loper fans fill the stands during homecoming week, Nikki Sonthana will be in a familiar spot – on the sidelines, cheering on the blue and gold.
The University of Nebraska at Kearney senior is leading the cheer team as head captain this year, a role that puts her passion for athletics and the Lopers front and center.
“It means a lot to me to represent UNK and be part of such a great community,” she said. “I am proud to wear the blue and gold and show my support for our school and athletes. Being a Loper has given me so many memories and opportunities. It’s something I will always be proud of.”
Sonthana started cheering as a sophomore at Lexington High School, where she was also a team captain and part of the Class B state runner-up squad in game day and tumbling. Over the past seven years, the sport has become an important part of her life.
“The best part is the bonds you build with your teammates, being able to serve as a role model for the younger generation and spreading school spirit,” she said. “I love being part of a team that supports one another and brings so much energy to our Loper community.”
That team-first approach is one of the qualities UNK head cheer coach Randi Todd values most.
“Nikki is the kind of person who leads by example,” Todd said. “She is dependable, hardworking and willing to put in the effort necessary to help the team improve. She brings a positive attitude to practices and performances and has the ability to encourage those around her, even when things get challenging. She cares about the success of the team as a whole.”
Sonthana also brings stability to a competitive program that continues to develop its identity. She’s someone her teammates can trust to communicate effectively, keep the group focused and provide direction when needed, according to Todd.
Sonthana approaches the captain role with that same emphasis on her teammates.
“I want them to learn to believe in themselves and not be afraid to step outside their comfort zone,” she said. “I also want them to understand how important it is to support one another, work hard and enjoy every moment, because these years go by so quickly.”
UNK cheerleaders perform at football, volleyball and basketball games, but that’s only part of the commitment. They also participate in events such as Blue Gold Welcome, the lipsync contest and homecoming parade while training for national competitions. The Lopers are currently preparing for their second consecutive appearance at NCA College Nationals in Daytona Beach, Florida, next spring.
Sonthana has grown alongside the program. Once more quiet and reserved, she credits cheer with helping her become more comfortable speaking up and taking on leadership responsibilities.
“It has really helped me grow into a better version of myself,” she said.
That confidence carries over to another important part of her UNK experience.
Sonthana is studying early childhood education, with plans to begin her teaching career in Nebraska after graduation. She’s also participated in America Reads since her freshman year, working with young children in a preschool setting while preparing for her future in the classroom.
Whether she’s teaching a lesson, leading her teammates or cheering from the sidelines, Sonthana wants to be someone others can look to for encouragement and support.
That’s exactly what Todd sees in her head captain.
“What makes Nikki a strong head captain is that she understands that leadership isn’t about being the loudest person in the room or simply having a title,” Todd said. “She has the ability to hold her teammates accountable while still making them feel supported.”
PHOTOS BY ERIKA PRITCHARD, UNK COMMUNICATIONS
Why did you choose UNK?
I chose UNK because I love the environment and the sense of community here. Being close to home was also a big plus because I can visit my family on the weekends. UNK also has a great teaching program, which made it a great fit for me. Looking back on my years here, I feel that UNK has helped me grow both personally and professionally and prepared me to become a positive role model for my future students.
How would you describe the feeling of being on the sidelines during a Loper game?
I love the atmosphere that our Loper fans create and how much support they show us throughout the game. They are always so appreciative of the stunts we perform during timeouts and quarters, along with the cheers we do. It makes being on the sidelines even more special and shows how much of a community we have here at UNK.
What’s a moment with UNK cheer you know you’ll remember years from now?
Cheering at Memorial Stadium during Volleyball Day in Nebraska my freshman year. It was such an amazing experience. Being able to cheer in a setting like that is something I know I will remember for years to come.
What song instantly gets you ready for game day?
Honestly, any song from Morgan Wallen.
If you weren’t a cheerleader, what other activity would you want to try?
I would probably want to try volleyball. I have always enjoyed being around the sport and it would be fun to experience it from a different perspective and challenge myself in a new way.
How would your teammates describe you as a captain?
I think my teammates would describe me as someone who is supportive, passionate and always willing to help. I want everyone to feel comfortable coming to me, whether they need encouragement, advice or just someone to talk to. I also try to lead by example and bring a positive attitude to the team.
What have your teammates taught you?
My teammates have taught me to lead with confidence and always give my best, even when things get challenging. They have pushed me to grow, encouraged me along the way and shown me the importance of having people around you who believe in you. I am grateful for the friendships I have made and the positive impact my teammates have had on me throughout my time at UNK.
What’s your favorite Loper tradition?
I have so many favorites! Some of them are Blue Gold Showcase, homecoming week and the spring concert. I love how these traditions bring everyone together and make being a Loper such a fun experience.
When you eventually cheer at your final game for UNK, what do you think you’ll miss most?
I think I will miss the people and the memories the most. Being able to spend so much time with my teammates, cheer on our athletes and be part of the Loper community has made these years so special. I know it will be hard to say goodbye to something that has been such a big part of my life.
