Story by Michael Kormos and Matt Adams Greater Athens Magazine
Online streaming service Netflix released the second season of its popular series “ Cheer ” Jan . 12 and it quickly became one of the platforms ’ most watched shows .
Season one of the docuseries followed the ups and downs of Corsicana ’ s Navarro College competitive cheer squad as it worked to win a coveted national title .
After only a brief mention in season one , “ Cheer ” expanded its look into the sport of highly competitive cheer leading to include Navarro ’ s biggest rival , nearby Trinity Valley Community College .
Only about 40 miles down the road in Athens , the TVCC team is led by former football player turned head cheer coach Vontae Johnson and features team leaders and standout athletes Jada Wooten , DeVonte Joseph , Jeron Hazelwood and Angel Rice .
Johnson said in an interview with Entertainment Tonight that he originally turned down the opportunity to be featured more in season one because he didn ’ t want his team to lose focus on the championship .
When director Greg Whiteley approached him again after the success of season one , Johnson said he loved how the series portrayed the sport .
In a statement to Newsweek ahead of the documentary series release , Whiteley said :
“ I believe the story is going to ultimately be the best version of itself when you are honoring what is true , and you ’ re not running from it . This season covers events as they unfolded , beginning in January 2020 through April 2021 , following Navarro College and their rival Trinity Valley Community College on their journeys to the national championship .
“ The new episodes also tackle extremely difficult moments , including the impact of COVID-19 and criminal charges against one of Navarro ’ s former team members . It was inspiring , heartbreaking , sometimes frustrating , and ultimately moving to be a part of their lives . Flying home from our last day of shooting in
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