Former DeKalb Tiger makes Tennessee Titans cheer squad
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (KQTV) -- A DeKalb Tiger graduate has earned a spot on an NFL cheerleading squad.
McKenzie Black was named to the Tennessee Titans cheerleading squad on Wednesday.
Black found her passion for dance at St. Joseph's Darcee's School of Dance. This enthusiasm motivated her to pursue cheerleading at DeKalb High School, where her mother, Yvonne, coached the Tiger Cheer Squad.
"(My mom) definitely shaped me as a high schooler going forward. Teaching me that working hard is going to be the best thing for me if I want to reach my dreams," Black told KQ2.
This drive gained on the Tiger sidelines took Black to Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville. While earning her degree, she maintained her involvement in athletics with the Bearcat Steppers.
As a Stepper, Black danced for Bearcat teams and recently won the 2026 NDA D2 Pom National Championship.
"Not everybody gets the opportunity to dance every single day. I would just say that it's a little bittersweet," Black shared. "Of course, moving on throughout my years. I graduate from Northwest on Saturday, and so getting to say goodbye to such a huge chapter of my life is so crazy."
With graduation nearing, Black began searching for her next dance and cheer opportunity. She looked for a new home that would nourish both her cheer ambitions and passion for teaching.
This exploration opened the door to try out for the Tennessee Titans organization. Considering Nashville's broader community, she saw the chance to teach when not cheering on the sidelines, which proved true.
Her determination was rewarded with selection as the newest Titans cheerleader and a teaching position nearby.
"(Doing teaching and professional cheer) is definitely a dream come true. I have always said that I want to be an NFL cheerleader. At first I was like, I don't really know if I want to be a teacher, but getting to do my student teaching this year has really opened my eyes," Black said. "like you said, like superhero moment, turn into a Titans cheerleader on Sundays and then go back on Monday like nothing happened, like it's going to be it's going to be insane."
As for what she feels she can pass down to DeKalb students or anyone she crosses paths with, Black said to keep on moving.
"Don’t let adversity or negativity hinder your dreams. You only live once—take the chance while you can," Black said. "Time is fleeting, whether you have much or little, so pursue your goals fully."
Black will graduate this weekend from Northwest with an Elementary Education degree and expects to teach upper-elementary students in Tennessee. She plans to re-tryout for the Titans in 2027 and continue cheer and dance as long as possible.
