MEGAN CARUSO

WHEELING — Central Catholic High School announced the hiring of Megan Caruso as its next head cheerleading coach on Friday morning.

Caruso takes over for Jessica Becker, who stepped down after upwards of 20 highly successful seasons at the helm of the Maroon Knight program.

“I am super excited to step into this role,” Caruso said. “This program has been touched by some of the very best coaches such as Cheryl Zambito, Paula Thomas, Rose Palmer, Jessi Becker, Corey Pietranton and so many others. Filling those shoes will be the hardest part for me.”

Caruso brings a wealth of experience with her to the Maroon Knights program. She spent eight years (2010-18) as the head coach at Linsly where she led the squad to an OVAC title each season. She’s also worked as a choreographer at Superior Cheering and, since 2022, taught dance classes at Turn It Out Dance School.

“We are very excited to add Megan to our coaching staff,” Wheeling Central Director of Athletics Seth Staskey said. “She brings a wealth of experience and success across numerous areas in the sport of cheering. We feel confident that she will continue the tradition of our program competing well for regional, state and OVAC championships.”

Central cheering boasts a strong tradition. It owns six state championships and 19 OVAC championships.

“I have always admired the hard work and talent in these athletes year after year,” Caruso said. “I am thrilled to now get to be a part of it and put my touch on things. I want to not only continue to be successful competitively but also get back to the basics on the sidelines. I want to build a team that supports each other, works hard and has fun doing it. I’d love to grow the program, boost school spirit and help each athlete feel confident enough to shine.”

Caruso, who teaches at St. Michael’s Parish School in Wheeling, was a cheerleader and track standout at Weir High. She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from West Virginia University.

Megan and her husband, Michael, have two daughters – Cecelia (9) and Mila (7). They reside in Wheeling.