Cheerleaders at the 2021 Exchange Club parade.

Before Billy Smith died in a bicycle accident in April, the former Wildcat cheer coach envisioned bringing decades of cheer alums back together for a reunion at Wildcat Stadium. Smith, known for sharing his big smile and “attitude of gratitude,” would be happy to know the party will go on without him.

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The Lake Highlands Wildcat Club will host a “Years of Cheers” reunion Friday, Sept. 2 at the LHHS vs. Flower Mound football game. The event will be held at the Wildcat Stadium party patio under the press box during the game.

Cheer alums may sign in here to get their name on the invitation list.

Smith graduated from Gallup High School in New Mexico, where he ran track and was voted “Mr. Spirit” by his peers. While a student at Texas Tech, he was a member of the Saddle Tramps, the group which rings the victory bells after Red Raider victories. He was a Tech cheerleader and then an NCA instructor to girls from across the state attending cheer camps. In addition to coaching Wildcat cheerleaders for 24 years, Smith led the Texas Tech squad and multiple club cheer groups. He supported Cheer Abilities, which helps youth with special needs learn the physical and emotional benefits of the sport.

If you cheered at LHHS or LHFC, you’re invited to respond and join the party. The form invites you to share your favorite LH tradition and asks if you’d be willing to perform in pre-game ceremonies.

Author

  • Carol Toler

    Blogger CAROL TOLER and her husband, Toby, are the parents of four LHHS graduates. She has an MBA from SMU and is the proud recipient of the Exchange Club of LH's Unsung Hero Award and Councilman McGough's Blake Anderson Public Service Award. She received LHHS PTA's Extended Service Award, FMJH PTA's Charger Award and a Life Membership from the LHFC PTA. She has moderated candidate debates for Dallas Mayor, Dallas City Council and RISD Trustee races and taught seminars on garnering publicity for nonprofits. She completed training with Dallas Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation and Inside RISD, and she's a sustaining member of LH Women's League. She has served on the boards of After8 to Educate, Dallas Free Press, Healing Hands Ministries and Camp Sweeney and chaired fundraisers for multiple Dallas nonprofits. Email ctoler@advocatemag.com.