The varsity cheerleading team is heading to Nationals in Orlando, Florida. This is an exciting milestone after a season of hard work and dedication. The team earned its spot through strong performances and consistent improvement, giving athletes the opportunity to compete on a national stage for the third year in a row. For many team members, qualifying for Nationals was an unforgettable moment, as the announcement reflected months of commitment and determination. Eighth grader Madison Beck, competing on varsity for the first time, said, “I was really surprised that my first year on varsity cheer we made it to Nationals.” The achievement marked the beginning of intense preparation as the team shifted its focus toward competing against top programs from across the country.
Team leadership has played a role in keeping spirits high throughout the season. Junior Chloe Johnson shared she had mixed feelings about qualifying for Nationals, and said, “I was really excited to find out we were going, but I was also really nervous.” She credited the team’s senior, Hayden Rosa, for maintaining motivation and positivity throughout the practices. “We only have one senior, and she keeps the team going with her energy and jokes,” Johnson said, noting that leadership has helped the team stay focused during challenging moments.
Junior Francesca Canepa described qualifying for Nationals as an emotional experience for the team. “It felt amazing, and I was overwhelmed with joy to find out I was going to nationals with my team,” she said. Canepa shared that being part of the cheer program taught her valuable lessons that extend beyond the mat, including the importance of communication and trust. As the Owls look ahead, Canepa offered advice to younger cheerleaders with similar goals: “Never give up, and even if things aren’t going right, keep on fighting.”
Since Nationals are held at Disney World in Florida, the team will be able to enjoy some time in the parks but will still need to stay focused on their daily practices preparing for competition. Johnson explained, “We will have one practice a day with a little break and then have fun at the parks,” allowing the team to stay focused while still enjoying the trip outside of the cheer world. Maintaining discipline and consistency is important to ensure the routine will stay steady throughout the trip.
With Nationals approaching, the cheer team remains focused on finishing the season strong. No matter the outcome, qualifying for Nationals shows dedication, perseverance, and growth throughout the season. For the team, the experience is an impressive achievement and a memorable chapter in the program’s success.
