Lockridge, Mazie, and Odom named as VHS Cheer Captains

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Janiyah Mazie, Deztinee Odom and Shandrea Lockridge have been named captains of the Vicksburg High School varsity football cheerleading team for the 2025-2026 school year. Mazie will serve as Head Captain, while Odom and Lockridge will serve as Co-Captains. All three are under the direction of Head Coach Aeriel Patten.

Mazie

Mazie learned of her appointment just last week while attending cheer camp.

“It’s an honor and privilege to be named captain because it’s something you have to earn, and I feel like I accomplished that,” she said.

Mazie has been cheering since the age of 4 with the Vicksburg Packers. She later cheered at Vicksburg Junior High before joining the varsity squad. At last week’s camp at the University of Southern Mississippi, she was named All-American.

As Head Captain, Mazie is responsible for making sure the team knows its material and stays motivated.

Although this upcoming year will be a big one for her, Mazie said last season was her favorite.

“The bond we had as a team was very special, and I plan to keep us close together like we were last year,” she said.

At VHS, Mazie is involved in student council as class president, Key Club, and serves as a student ambassador.

She is the daughter of Derrick and Kaynetra Tucker.

Odom

Odom also learned of her new leadership role at USM Camp.

“I’m happy for this. It’s exciting, and I have a positive attitude about everything, so I believe we’ll have a good season,” Odom said.

As Co-Captain, she helps maintain discipline and provides feedback on team performance.

Odom didn’t begin cheering until the ninth grade, when friends encouraged her to try out.

“My friends kinda forced and encouraged me to join the cheer team as a freshman,” she said jokingly.

After graduation, Odom plans to pursue a career in cosmetology. She is the daughter of Larry Odom Jr. and Shakita Hunt.

Lockridge

Lockridge, also a newly named Co-Captain, earned her role through years of dedication.

“I was really surprised and wasn’t expecting it, but it’s a big opportunity to help represent the team,” she said.

Lockridge began cheering her freshman year but had previously focused on softball.

Now a rising senior, she is focused on setting a positive tone for the year ahead.

“I plan on helping us grow as a team and bond as a team to make this year special for everyone,” Lockridge said.

At VHS, she is a softball player and cheerleader, as well as a member of Key Club and a student ambassador.

After high school, Lockridge hopes to earn a softball scholarship to continue playing at the next level.

She is the daughter of Shandell Lockridge and Juanita Jones.