Being named the O’ahu Interscholastic Association (OIA) West Coed Cheerleading Coach of the Year isn’t just a trophy moment, it’s one of the biggest honors in the league. The title recognizes a coach who leads with heart, pushes athletes to grow, and builds a team that’s strong both on and off the mat.
In 2025, that honor belongs to James Campbell High School’s Coach Gabrielle “Gabby” Cardona.
From the way she shows up for her athletes to the energy she brings into every practice, Coach Gabby has become a standout in the OIA West. Cheer captain Juliet Caston described her coaching style as dedicated and passionate.
“She really does her best to prepare the team and make us look our best,” Caston said.
What sets Coach Gabby apart, Caston shared, is the effort she puts into building genuine connections with her athletes.
“She really strives to form a bond with each athlete on the mat, building our trust and teamwork with our coaches and each other,” Caston said. “She connects with every athlete and is always there to support us.”
That support has translated into growth across the program. After a season of noticeable improvement, Caston believes Coach Gabby’s recognition reflects how far the team has come.
“She has driven our team to grow and improve tremendously from last season,” Caston said. “Our cheer team has been able to achieve so much throughout the season because of her dedication.”
Beyond competition results, Coach Gabby’s impact can be seen in the confidence and leadership of her athletes. For Caston, that influence has been personal.
“She was part of my growth from the quiet freshman I was at the beginning of my high school career to being one of the captains on our cheer team,” she said.
James Campbell High School has every reason to be proud. This award isn’t just a win for Coach Gabby, it’s a win for the entire cheer program and the community that continues to support it.
