Godley High School senior Paola Valenzuela announced plans to continue her cheerleading career at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor during a signing ceremony held May 1, 2026.

Located in Belton, the Crusaders compete in NCAA Division III athletics as members of the American Southwest Conference.

An All-American cheerleader, Valenzuela helped lead the team to a fourth-place finish at the NCA High School Nationals earlier this year after placing 12th in 2025 in the program’s first-ever appearance at the national competition. The Godley cheer program also earned recognition this year by competing at the UIL State Spirit Championships.

Valenzuela was joined during the signing ceremony by her parents and extended family members; GHS cheer coaches Amanda Musselman and Dana Burke; and members of the GHS cheer team.