Crawley Haller signs cheer scholarship to East Mississippi CC

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Not making the St. Aloysius cheerleading team as a freshman never stopped Crawley Haller from chasing her dreams. Through discipline and hard work, the dedicated senior earned her moment Monday, signing a collegiate cheerleading scholarship to East Mississippi Community College.

Surrounded by family, teammates and classmates, Haller made it official, putting pen to paper to solidify her future as a college cheerleader.

“I’m very excited, and there are lots of opportunities that come with this,” Haller said. “Cheering at nationals is something that I’ve always wanted to do, and I’ll have that chance at EMCC.”

Haller first drew interest from EMCC in February, which eventually led to the opportunity to continue doing what she loves.

Her journey began in the third grade, and she stayed committed to the sport. But by ninth grade, she faced a major setback when she was not listed on the active roster.

“Not making the team was the most humbling and discouraging thing in my life,” she said.

Instead of giving up, Haller went to work. During her time away from the squad, she focused on improving her skills through tumbling lessons. Her persistence paid off when she earned a spot on the team the following season. She credits her mother as her biggest influence throughout the process.

“I think my mom was more upset than I was when I didn’t make the team,” Haller said with a laugh. “She continued to encourage me and made sure that nothing held me back.”

Over the past three years, Haller has cheered under head coach Kirsten Golding, helping lead the team to a Non-Tumbling Medium Championship at the MAIS State Meet this past season.

“Kirsten always pushed us, even when we didn’t want to do it, and she always corrected me when needed, so I thank her for that,” Haller added.

Just before the start of her senior year, Haller was named a UCA All-American, another milestone in her steady rise.

“Crawley has been a member of the varsity cheer team for three years. She was a vital part of our team, helping us win state this year,” Golding said. Crawley is an exceptional teammate and will be a wonderful addition to her new squad. Our team is so proud of her.” 

In addition to cheer, Haller has been a multi-sport athlete at St. Aloysius, competing in golf, soccer and softball.

The daughter of Caroline DeRossette, Haller plans to major in business