Lehi High School named Ashley Behrend as head cheer coach on Monday, Aug. 31, replacing Jena Anderson after her 10-year run leading the program.

Anderson leaves behind one of the area's strongest cheer résumés. Her squads won back-to-back 5A co-ed cheer state titles in 2021 and 2022 in an independent competition before the Utah High School Activities Association (UHSAA) began sanctioning competitive cheer. Since 2020, the program produced 11 Utah Cheer Coaches Association All-State performers, Lehi Free Press reported.

Once the UHSAA took over in 2023, the Pioneers placed third in the 5A state competition and won first in the all-girl sideline/timeout dance category. The team finished fourth at the 6A state championships in January 2024 and January 2025. Anderson earned 5A Cheer Coach of the Year in 2023 and 6A Cheer Coach of the Year in 2025, Herald Extra reported at the January 2025 finals.

No reason for her departure is public.

Behrend comes from the All Star cheer world. The school's announcement letter described her as having seven years of experience as a cheer athlete across All Star, high school and college levels, plus more than four years of coaching, most recently with teen athletes in All Star programs. She is a Lehi resident and mother of three, including two All Star cheerleaders.

The administration's letter also stated that bullying, retaliation and threats have no place in the program. The school did not elaborate on the context for that language. The letter said the athletic department is committed to supporting Behrend as she builds a program centered on safety, respect, teamwork and competitive excellence.

Matt Brousseau, father of four-year varsity cheerleader and current captain Emma Brousseau, praised Anderson's impact. "Jena has the biggest heart; she dedicated her time and energy for this school, this program and these girls," he told Lehi Free Press.

Emma Brousseau credited Anderson and assistant coaches Emily Whitney, Codi Butterfield, Valerie Finlinson and Desi Larson with the program's growth. She called Anderson the best coach she could have asked for.

The 6A state competitive cheer championships are held each January at the UCCU Center in Orem. No 2026-27 season schedule has been announced.