With less than one month left until the state competition, the cheer team is in full preparation mode, running routines repeatedly and perfecting every stunt, jump, and tumbling pass. Every practice, the gym is alive with energy — sneakers squeaking across the mat, voices calling out counts, and the occasional shout of encouragement as teammates push each other to get every skill just right.
State isn’t just any other competition — it’s the showcase of everything the team has worked for since the season began. From refining transitions to tightening their form, every detail matters. The team knows that even the smallest improvement can make the difference between good and great.
Even when exhaustion sets in, their motivation and determination push them to keep going. Every flyer, base, and backspot knows what’s at stake and shares one goal: to bring home a state title.
“The biggest challenge about preparing for competition so far has been changing our routine in many ways and having to get used to each one,” says freshman Kinsey Hall, reflecting on the constant adjustments the team has faced.
Despite the long hours and the physical toll, the athletes are also training their minds for the pressure that comes with competition. “The coaches have worked extremely hard to build a successful and challenging routine for us,” says junior Clare Emery. “When it comes time to compete at state, it won’t be our ability to do the routine that determines the outcome, but our mental focus.”
The team credits much of their progress to their supportive coaching staff, who guide them with patience, positivity, and belief in their potential. The athletes also take pride in the culture they’ve built — one that balances hard work with encouragement. “Since joining the team, teamwork has been one of the main things that lead us to success,” Hall adds. “My team values teamwork tremendously, and it doesn’t just lead us to success but also builds our bond together.”
As the team prepares for their final run toward state, Emery reflects on what makes cheerleading so unique — and what keeps them grounded under pressure.
“In cheerleading, you have one shot. One chance to make all the time you spent practicing worth it. There’s no overtime or next quarter. Every moment counts,” she explains. “This can be an intense amount of pressure for freshmen and newer team members, so it’s important to remind them that state isn’t about not messing up — it’s an opportunity to showcase those hours we spent in the gym. What defines us as athletes isn’t just the final performance, but the grit we’ve built to get there.”
In the final stretch before state, practices are longer, the routines are sharper, and the excitement is stronger than ever. Each practice ends with laughter, encouragement, and the reminder that every rep, every correction, and every bruise is part of something bigger.
As the big day approaches, the team isn’t just preparing to perform — they’re preparing to represent their school with pride, confidence, and unity. Whether they take home the title or not, one thing is clear: this team has already won when it comes to dedication, growth, and heart.
