Angelecque Thornton and Katelyn Connors have been named the new Niles varsity and junior varsity cheerleading coaches respectively it was announced Wednesday by athletic director Jeff Upton.

Thornton has plenty of cheerleading experience, having been on the Niles high school squad before cheering at both Southwestern Michigan College and Grand Valley State University. She was also the all girls football cheer coach for Grand Valley.

Her high school coaching career includes stops at Grand Rapids West Catholic, Byron Center and White Cloud.

“Cheering the Niles’ sports programs to a win is not the only goal on Angelecque’s agenda,” Upton said. “The student-athlete’s success in the classroom takes first place. Working on her master’s degree in the field of special education from Aquinas College and an undergraduate degree from Grand Valley State University, Angelecque finds education a priority for our young ladies.

“I am a strong supporter of physical fitness for any sport or team. It’s not just about building a great cheerleader, but building a lifelong athlete,” Thornton said. “Academics will always be my first priority and I will support the teachers and administrative staff to keep the athlettes in good academic standing.

“Cheer is a great way for our youth to learn how to work through tough situations while keeping a smile on their face.”

Thornton is married with two sons who attend Niles Community Schools and a 3-year-old future Viking.

Connors comes to Niles after coaching the Young Champions of America in LaPorte, Ind. the past two years.

She has also worked at the Niles-Buchanan YMCA as a gymnastics instructor. Connors is currently attending Southwestern Michigan College. She is an alumna of Niles High School and a former Vikings cheerleader.