Carson High grad to cheer on Nevada Wolf Pack

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – When the Nevada Wolf Pack takes the floor today for its South Regional opener, Carson City’s Kelly Canfield will have a great view.

Canfield, a Carson High graduate and a sophomore at Nevada, is one of the cheerleaders who made the trip to Nashville for the NCAA Tournament. She also accompanied the team to Las Vegas for the Mountain West Tournament.

“It’s been a great experience,” Canfield said while the Wolf Pack went through its 30-minute open practice obligation at Bridgestone Arena before departing for Vanderbilt University for its regular practice. “Getting to cheer here in Nashville on national TV, its really exciting. It’s something I’ll always remember.

“It’s go, go, go. We practice from 5 to 9 every Tuesday and Thursday, and we have games on Wednesday and Saturday (when the team is home). We’re also expected to work out on our own. I like to stay busy. It gets you involved in school.”

Canfield is in her second year on the Nevada squad. She said it was tough competition, but having her older sister, Hayley, already there helped pave the way. Hayley Canfield graduated from Carson in 2013.

Despite being on the squad for two years, Canfield isn’t assured of a spot for next year. She will have to try out like any other student, and she’s ready for the challenge.

“Tryouts are April 12,” she said. “It helps we’re still playing, so we can (all) work on our skills and not get lazy.”

Kelly never played sports at Carson, but her brother, Reece, does. He’s one of the top swimmers in Northern Nevada.

“I go to all of his meets,” Canfield said. “He comes to all of our (home) games.”