On Saturday, Jan 23, varsity cheer attended their second competition of the season. Held at Poston Butte High School, it was the first in person competition they attended and how they performed determined whether or not they would qualify for state in March. 

“We have been practicing nonstop since we found out winter sports were able to,” says senior and team captain Isabel Thiel, “everyone has been working so hard and we are super prepared.”

When winter sports were canceled, this included the cheer season. After having such successful seasons two years in a row, the team was devastated to know they could not have another. But when the season was called on again, they got back to work immediately. 

“They have especially picked up the pace this last week,” says coach Desiree Houg, “and they have been executing clean, successful routines.”

After placing 2nd out of 17, varsity will be headed back to state, along with the fiveman stunt group that placed 3rd. The team has won state the past two years and they have high hopes for this year, despite all the uncertainties of the future.

“This year has been very tough,” says coach Houg, “to give something your all every day, never knowing if the hard work will get to be seen says a lot about the character of these kids.” 

In order for the sport to get the chance to compete again, there were precautions that had to be set. One of these was that an audience was not allowed at this, or any future, competitions.

“As cheerleaders, the majority of our energy comes from fans and large crowds, so no fans was definitely an adjustment we had to make,” says Thiel.

Another new precaution was that masks have to be worn throughout the whole performance. Previously, the cheerleaders only had to wear them during practice, but now, they have to wear them while competing as well. 

“It was pretty hard to get used to, but now it feels normal,” says junior Arisa Shimpuku, adding “It is still weird doing facials with the masks on though.” 

As for the state competition, the date is set for Mar 6. With over a month to prepare, the team has plenty of time to get ready, and they do not intend on letting that time go to waste.