Cheer team successfully prepares for state competition

On Sunday, Jan. 22 the state cheer squad attended the 2017 Skutt Skyhawk Cheer Sensation. The girls attended this competition as preparation for the state competition in February.

“It gave the girls a chance to get used to the competition atmosphere because most of the girls have never competed before joining the team,” Molly Seals, the state coach said.

The squad has been preparing for several months by practicing three times a week. For one hour a week they practice at Airborn on the cheer mats they compete on. They also had a five hour cleaning camp with a Universal Cheerleaders Association staff member. After a first place finish this weekend, the squad believes that their work is starting to pay off.

“Last year at the competition we got third, so we just wanted to keep that,” senior Reghan Callahan said. “But when we won we were all really excited. It was the first time our competition team had won.”

“They have worked so hard and this is the first time they’ve received first place,” Seals said. “You could tell they were genuinely happy when they heard their name and you could see a few happy tears.”

The squad will keep preparing for the state competition by continuing practices, attending the Midland University Cheer and Dance competition, performing at basketball games, and a family/friends showcase on Thursday, Feb 9th.

After placing first this past weekend, the squad’s goal for state placement has increased.

“Initially we wanted to place top five [at state],” Callahan said. “But now I think we can get top 3.”

“My goal for the girls is for them to bring everything they have and not leave the competition feeling like they could’ve given more,” Seals said.

Good luck to state cheer!